Hypertension


Last Updated December 20th, 2021

Overview of hypertension

Environmental stress factors combined with existing physiological conditions can lead to several diseases of varying complexities. Hypertension or “high blood pressure” is one such disorder that contributes to several cardiovascular and associated complications within the human body.

According to recent epidemiological findings by the World Health Organisation, hypertension affects nearly 1 billion lives all over the world and has lead to nearly 7.1 million premature deaths so far. The common misconception associated with hypertension is that it is strictly related to old age. But recent research findings have revealed that young adults and in rare cases small children can also suffer from hypertension conditions. Based on the reports of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, hypertension accounts for 4.5% of the global disease burden and should be addressed seriously.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is defined as the condition of elevated blood pressure within the body. Under normal conditions, overall blood pressure is the summation of pressure exerted by the circulating bloodstream on the individual arteries.

The pressure exerted on arterial walls during contraction of the heart muscles is termed as systolic pressure. The pressure exerted on the arterial walls in between consecutive heart beats is called diastolic pressure. Under healthy conditions, the systolic pressure is 120 mm Hg and the diastolic pressure is 80 mm Hg. Elevation of blood pressure above these threshold values leads to hypertension. Under hypertension conditions, the systolic pressure has been found to be 140 mm Hg or more and diastolic pressure has been found to be 90 mm Hg or more. It is to be noted that the rise in diastolic pressure is more alarming than the rise in systolic pressure.

What causes hypertension?

Hypertension can be triggered by several etiological factors. The commonly studied factors are discussed below-

  • Age: Thickened and stiffened blood vessel walls may occur at old age that may give rise to hypertension.
  • Diseases: Pre-existing pathological conditions can lead to hypertension. A few common examples of this category are- Cardiovascular disorders, Renal dysfunctions (Diabetic Nephropathy) and Endocrinal disorders (Cushing’s syndrome, Acromegaly).
  • Diet: Regular diet deficient in essential minerals like potassium and abundant in saturated fat, trans fat, animal proteins, cholesterol and excess sodium can trigger hypertension.
  • Stress: Physical and emotional stress can lead to overactivation of the neuromuscular system, leading to hypertension.
  • Hormones: Imbalance of essential hormones within the body such as thyroid hormones (Triiodothyronine and Thyroxine) and sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) may lead to hypertension. These conditions are more common during pregnancy or in the post-partum phase.
  • Medications: A few over-the-counter medications such as corticosteroids, oral contraceptive pills etc. can directly impact hormonal activities and trigger hypertension.
  • Respiratory disorders: Some existing respiratory conditions such as sleep apnea (shortage of breath during sleep) can give rise to hypertension due to increased demand for oxygen in the body.
  • Substance abuse: Excess intake of tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, and narcotics can cause stiffening of arterial walls, leading to hypertension.
  • Obesity: Obesity and overweight conditions cause excess fat deposition within the body (adipose tissues) that in turn lead to hypertension.
  • Physical activities: Reduction or complete absence of physical activities or leading a sedentary life can predispose an individual to hypertension (due to reduced muscular activities).
  • Heredity: A familial history of high blood pressure and associated cardiovascular complications can increase risks of hypertension in the future generations. Recent research findings by the National Institute of Health (United States) have revealed 16 mutated variants of genes associated with hypertension.

What are the main symptoms?

In a majority of the cases, hypertension manifests itself silently and progressively and is therefore called the “silent killer”. Identification of the following symptoms is essential for a proper diagnosis-

  • Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia)
  • Pain and discomfort in the chest
  • Persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Headaches and morning sickness
  • Nasal bleeding
  • Seizures and convulsions
  • Hot flushes due to a sudden spike of blood pressure
  • Flushed appearance due to dilated blood vessels
  • Shortage of breath during sleep (sleep apnea)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Blood spots in the eye (conjunctival hemorrhage)
  • Disturbed sleep (insomnia and sleep apnea)
  • Mental instability and anxiety
  • Extreme fatigue and general body weakness
  • Muscular weakness

Types of hypertension

Hypertension is broadly classified into two categories depending on the source. These are-

  • Primary hypertension: It is believed to be an outcome or combination of complex genetic and environmental factors. It is usually idiopathic (of unknown cause) in nature. It is observed in 97-98% of hypertension cases and is also called “essential hypertension”.
  • Secondary hypertension: Secondary hypertension may arise out of pre-existing renal, cardiovascular or endocrinal disorders. An impacted blood vessel close to the heart or brain may result from congenital defects which can cause hypertension.

Some other types of hypertension are described below-

  • Resistance hypertension: It is more common in a few ethnic groups such as African Americans and may be attributed to a few complex genetic factors. Both the systolic and diastolic pressure rise in this condition due to the elevation in overall peripheral vascular resistance.
  • Output (volume) hypertension: Rise of only systolic pressure occurs due to increased cardiac output.
  • Elastic hypertension: It is caused due to loss of elasticity of blood vessels with age.
  • Isolated systolic hypertension: This condition is observed mainly in elderly people (above 65 years old). Here the systolic pressure rises above 140 mm Hg while the diastolic pressure remains normal.
  • Malignant hypertension: It is more commonly observed in women suffering from “pregnancy toxemia”, more commonly called preeclampsia. It is characterized by impaired vision, numbness, chest pain and dizziness.

Important diagnostic tests

Regular monitoring of Body Mass Index (BMI) is advised by doctors after a certain age to check for hypertension symptoms. Electrocardiography (ECG) of the heart is also essential to detect cardiovascular abnormalities.

Treatment & Prevention

Hypertension can be treated by following a healthy lifestyle and the steps outlined below

  • Healthy lifestyle changes such as the inclusion of exercise, cessation of smoking/drinking, and consuming a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Medications (diuretics or water pills) may be prescribed that help in flushing out excess salt from the body.
  • Other medications required to treat hypertension include ARBs and ACE inhibitors.
  • Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers may also be prescribed.

Prevention of hypertension 

  • Consume a diet which is low in fats and sodium (salt)
  • Refrain from leading a largely sedentary lifestyle. Adopt a regular exercise routine.
  • Try to maintain a normal BMI as per your age and gender.
  • Smoking needs to be refrained from completely. Similarly, say no to excessive alcohol and sugar consumption.
  • Have a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, antioxidants, and healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids found in fish).
  • Stress management is equally important. Stress hormones, such as cortisol, are known to elevate blood pressure leading to chronic cardiovascular ailments.

Hypertension home remedies

In addition to the prescribed drugs and positive changes in diet and lifestyle, the following home remedies can help in attaining better control over hypertension:

  • Dark chocolate: One should carefully choose chocolate with high cocoa concentration (at least 50-70%) and low sugar levels in order to reap maximum benefits. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that effectively bring down LDL cholesterol and elevate HDL cholesterol that helps bring down both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
  • Bananas: Bananas and other potassium-rich foods are fundamental in maintaining healthy electrolytic balance. These help in controlling the volume of fluids stored in your body. If you have higher fluid levels, your BP will automatically rise. Potassium helps in bringing a balance in your fluid levels and thus aid in regulating BP.
  • Whole grains: High in dietary fibers, whole grains ensure that the excess cholesterol and fats are routinely removed from the body through bowels. This in turn helps in lowering blood pressure levels and unclogging arteries.
  • Berries: Blueberries and strawberries are great for naturally controlling blood pressure. Including these in your daily diet will increase your nitric oxide levels. This is a key substance that widens blood vessels, relaxes the arteries, and allows smooth circulation of blood. These are low in sugar too.
  • Calcium and Vitamin E: In addition to potassium, calcium also has therapeutic effects on hypertension. 1000 to 1500 mg of calcium per day can help restore normal blood pressure in the longer run. This is abundantly found in dairy products and dark green leafy vegetables. Fish oil supplements which are rich in vitamin E are also known to lower hypertensive states.

TL;DR?

 

Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • Consume a low-fat and low-salt diet. Sodium and trans fat intake should be minimum.
  • Eat 5 portions of fresh fruits and vegetables per day.
  • Lose weight. Being overweight, high cholesterol and hypertension – are all inter-related and major risk factors for developing heart diseases.
Don'ts
  • Consume alcohol or indulge in high sugar consumption.
  • Let go of your weight. Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy BMI.
  • Remain sleep deficient. 8 hours of sleep every night is a must for hypertensive patients.

 

 

 

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Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) test Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is an enzyme that is found in every cell of the body and it plays…
stress depressed anxiety
Are you depressed or just stressed? Know when to see a doctor Why are some people more anxious than others? Is being depressed the same as feeling sad? Have you…
rosacea-treatment--before-_-after
The best and safest ways to treat rosacea Rosacea is a skin disease that is characterized by reddish hives and rashes on the face. Read more…
General adaptation syndrome: Understanding stress, one step at a time The struggle of the body to produce hormones during a stressful situation is the main theme of general…
Thyroid disorders
Thyroid Profile Thyroid profile is a panel of blood tests performed to check if an individual is suffering from any…
APL IgM Test
Antiphospholipid Antibody(APL)-IgM test The antiphospholipid antibodies are specific protein in the body directed against the phospholipids. It is used to detect…
alcohol toxic
7 startling facts that will make you quit alcohol today Does drinking really make you friendly and happy? How many calories does a can of cold beer add…
helping friend with depression
Support and care tips for helping people with depression Read to find out what is depression, its causes and symptoms. Also check out the steps describing how…
Blood Disorders cancer
Immunotherapy immunotherapy is a treatment that boosts the body's immune system to identify the cancer cells and fight cancer.
Lung cancer xray
Lobectomy Lobectomy is a surgery where a lobe of the diseased lung is removed. It is mainly done to…
heartfail_2
Open Heart Surgery An open heart surgery is a major procedure performed to treat heart diseases like congenital heart problem, heart…
DHEA wrinkles
DHEA: Now get unbelievable age defiance with this wonder hormone! DHEA is known popularly as the age-defying hormone. This supplement is widely used to slow down aging and…
BRAT Diet: What is the right way to follow this diarrhea-relieving diet? BRAT diet, a simple diet consisting of just bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, can help you combat the…
lipoprotein A
Lipoprotein (A) Test Lipoprotein (A) test is used to measure and monitor the levels of LDL(Low-Density Lipoprotein) in the bloodstream in…
Tart Cherry: The healthiest excuse for taking that second serving of pie Tart cherry has been traditionally used in delectable desserts such as pies. Recent studies have revealed that its…
Vitamin K2: 8 reasons why you need this bone-building & cancer-fighting nutrient Vitamin K2 is claimed to be essential for your bone health, for reducing the risk of cancer, and…
Jack in the box fast food
Jack In the Box : The perils of surging fast food culture in the USA Jack in the Box - How a culture of fast-food can clog your arteries, weaken your heart, fatten…
anti ds dna test
Anti Ds-DNA antibody Test The  Anti Ds-DNA antibody test is used to diagnose the disease called lupus or more aptly the SLE(Systematic…
Ca 19.9 test
CA19.9 Test CA 19.9 is a cancer antigen that exists on the surface of cancer-causing cells. The levels of CA…
Vagus nerve: 7 health benefits of stimulating the “gut-brain” connection As a matter of fact, there are two vagus nerves namely the left and the right but is…
Chest X-Ray A chest x-ray is a diagnostic test that uses x-rays to visualize the structures inside your chest. It…
CLA: A breakthrough weight loss supplement with minimal side effects Tried every weight loss supplement in the market with no substantial gain? Why not try CLA supplements, derived…
HSV-1_IGG
Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV)-IgG Test Herpes simplex virus I(HSV)-IgG is an Immunoglobulin protein that acts as an antibody & stays in the blood…
What is Qigong and how can it help you channelize you inner “Qi”? Qigong is an integrated way of performing a traditional exercise regimen that can help in promoting health, mental…
Tissue Transglutaminase Antibody (tTG) Test Transglutaminase is an enzyme present in our body and is involved in protein metabolism. A tTg test is…
6 arguments in favour of glucosamine and where can you find it Studies have shown that glucosamine works by preventing the breakdown of cartilage of the joints. This is usually…
xylitol gum
Xylitol : Is this the right sugar substitute for you? Discovered during World War 2 owing to sugar shortage, xylitol has become a common name in pharamaceutical industry.…
Cordyceps: How the Caterpillar fungus works as a proven cancer-shield Strange as it may sound, but cordyceps or "caterpillar fungus", a fungus variety native to the Himalayas may…
Bronchoscopy procedure
Bronchoscopy Bronchoscopy is a procedure where in a scope is inserted into the lung pathway to observe any growth…
Hydroquinone: Is it the best topical treatment for hyperpigmentation? Darkening of the skin due to high melanin levels is called hyperpigmentation.  Hydroquinone interferes with melanin production thus treating…
SIBO Diet: The important dos and don’ts of this gut-healing diet A SIBO diet is a diet that works by eliminating certain sugars from your diet and adding fibers…
Milk Thistle skin
Milk Thistle: Find possible cures for fatal diseases in these purple blooms Milk thistle is well-known for treating liver conditions. However, did you know that it comes with a plethora…
Tamarind: The top health benefits of this staple Asian ingredient Did you know this sweet and sour pulpy fruit does more than just add a tangy flavor to…
Hibiscus: Nourish your beauty and health with these vibrant blooms Hibiscus is a trumpet shaped flower found abundantly in tropical countries. It has been historically used for its…
Erythritol: A healthy sugar substitute or yet another marketing ploy? Erythritol is a popular choice of a healthy alternative sweetening agent in foods. But how healthy can a…
Trisodium Phosphate: How a paint thinner made its way into your breakfast Ever thought how toxic chemicals find their way into our foods? How can they harm our body? And…
folate test
Folate test The Folate test measures and monitors the levels of folic acid in the blood. This test is also…
Alp enzyme-test
ALP test – Alkaline Phosphate ALP or alkaline phosphate is an enzyme mainly produced by the liver and gallbladder. ALP test measures the…
iron deficiency profile
Iron Deficiency Profile An iron deficiency profile is a battery of blood tests which are performed in order to determine the…
antiHEV IgM test
Anti hepatitis E virus (Anti HEV) IgM Test Anti HEV IgM test determines the level of the IgM antibodies in the blood, The disease is often…
sodium chloride
Halotherapy: How inhaling salt can work wonders for your body Halotherapy is quickly gaining popularity amongst those with respiratory diseases. It has shown promise in its treatment.
Love tea, hate tannins? Rooibos tea is just what you need The market is brimming with a multitude of herbal teas. But what makes rooibos tea (or red bush)…

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