Hypertension is a commonly encountered cardiovascular condition characterized by elevated blood pressure levels. Affecting 1.28 billion adults globally, this chronic illness can lead to severe health complications.
Blood pressure measures the force exerted by circulating blood against the arterial walls. Hypertension occurs when this force increases significantly. The heart’s output, combined with the narrowing of arteries, determines the blood pressure level. Blood pressure readings are expressed in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and consist of two numbers representing systolic and diastolic pressures.
The systolic pressure, or the top number, gauges the pressure in arteries when the heart beats, while the diastolic pressure, or bottom number, measures it between heartbeats.
**Blood Pressure Levels and Diagnosis**
– **Normal**: Under 130/80 mmHg
– **Stage I Hypertension (mild)**: 130-139 mmHg systolic or diastolic between 80-89 mmHg
– **Stage II Hypertension (moderate)**: 140/90 mmHg or higher
– **Hypertensive Crisis**: 180/120 mmHg or higher
High blood pressure can lead to serious health issues, yet many people do not show symptoms initially, earning hypertension the nickname “silent killer.” Regular monitoring of blood pressure is crucial, as many individuals remain unaware of their condition until it reaches dangerous levels.
Symptoms of early hypertension can include headaches, breathlessness, and nosebleeds. However, these symptoms generally occur only when blood pressure has reached a life-threatening level.
## Different Types of Hypertension
**1. Essential Hypertension:** Diagnosed after persistent high blood pressure readings over multiple visits, with other causes ruled out. Often symptomless, it may occasionally present with headaches, fatigue, vertigo, or nosebleeds. Factors like genetics, diet, smoking, alcohol use, and obesity contribute to this type.
**2. Secondary Hypertension:** Commonly caused by abnormalities in the arteries supplying blood to the kidneys or conditions like sleep apnea, adrenal gland disorders, thyroid issues, and high salt or alcohol intake. Certain medications can also lead to secondary hypertension.
**3. Isolated Systolic Hypertension:** Characterized by high systolic pressure (the upper number) with normal diastolic pressure (the lower number). It’s more common in individuals over 65 due to reduced arterial flexibility. This type is a significant predictor of cardiovascular risk in the elderly.
**4. Malignant Hypertension:** A rare but serious condition, more prevalent in young adults, African-American men, and pregnant women. It involves a sudden, severe rise in blood pressure, especially diastolic pressure above 130. Symptoms include numbness, vision changes, confusion, headache, and chest pain, requiring immediate medical attention.
**5. Resistant Hypertension:** Diagnosed when blood pressure remains elevated despite using three antihypertensive medications. It’s seen in 20-30% of patients with high blood pressure and is more likely in those who are older, obese, or have conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.
## Hypertension Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
– Early morning headaches
– Nosebleeds
– Irregular heart rhythms
– Vision changes
– Buzzing in the ears
Severe hypertension may cause:
– Fatigue
– Nausea
– Vomiting
– Confusion
– Anxiety
– Chest pain
– Muscle tremors
Untreated hypertension can result in stroke, heart attack, peripheral vascular disease, kidney failure, eye damage, vascular dementia, and pregnancy complications, profoundly impacting heart health.
## How to Know If You Have Hypertension?
A blood pressure test is a quick, painless way to diagnose hypertension. While automated devices can be used at home, a professional assessment is essential to understand the risks and associated health conditions accurately.
For more information and professional advice, visit [Pro Health Support](https://www.prohealthsupport.com).