Hypertension or High Blood Pressure is a silent killer or a chronic ailment that is linked with overall deterioration of health in an individual. Though Hypertension is a commonly encountered problem these days due to changed lifestyle, not much awareness is noticed among people about the same.
Hypertension is a clinical condition when the pressure of the blood gushing in and out of the heart is elevated above the normal range (as guided by the standard guidelines). According to American Heart Association the normal human blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg which means the systolic blood pressure is 120mm Hg and the Diastolic blood pressure is 80mm HG. Anything above 140/90mm Hg is clinically considered as Hypertension and clinical consultation should be sought if one’s blood pressure is noticed as 140/90mm Hg or more.
What are the risk factors for hypertension ?
Hypertension can run in families, affects people who have a sedentary lifestyle, who are morbidly obese, have habits of smoking and alcohol consumption, who lack any form of physical activity or exercise. Individuals who are suffering with conditions affecting the various organs like kidney, liver or hormonal imbalance are also at a risk of acquiring Hypertension or high blood pressure.
Is hypertension treatable ?
Hypertension cannot be completely cured, but one can keep the blood pressure in control by adopting a healthier lifestyle, including some physical activity in daily routine, diet modifications and taking the required prescribed medication.
How can one keep the blood pressure in control ?
Blood Pressure can be controlled by regular monitoring of the blood pressure for any changes, adopting a healthier lifestyle with healthier diet, a reduction in salt and sugar intake and abstaining from habits like smoking and alcohol consumption.
Why awareness about hypertension is the need of the hour ?
Hypertension is a disease which could lead to other serious health ailments when not addressed seriously. With the change in lifestyle habits across the globe and adaptation of a more sedentary lifestyle the incidence of Hypertension has globally increased and is still increasing at an alarming rate. Awareness about Hypertension can greatly help individuals in learning about prevention of Hypertension and how to improve the lifestyle when affected with hypertension.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
