World Hypertension Day 2023: Tired of those endless office meetings, non-stop all-nighters, critical life decisions screaming for your attention, family commitments pulling you in all directions, even that gym membership you hardly used? Stop. You may be exposing yourself to hypertension (May 17 is World Hypertension Day), a leading cause of premature deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Also see: 7 ways to present hypertension
Hypertension, characterised by a sustained increase in blood pressure above the normal range, is a far more insidious disease than previously believed. As our lives continue to accelerate at an alarming pace, propelled by hi-tech pushing us into sedentary routines, we neglect the very things our bodies require to stay healthy. Add stress to this toxic concoction, and we are on the brink of a potential disaster.
Chronic stress can expose you to hypertension as it narrows blood vessels and increases lipid levels in the body. Many resort to smoking and drinking alcohol, both of which are known to raise blood pressure. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle, without any exercise and physical activity, can significantly elevate blood pressure levels.
Also read | Hypertension: Your high blood pressure could be because of talking on mobile phone
Here are the reasons why hypertension demands immediate attention:
1. Congestive heart failure
Hypertensive heart disease can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy, which refers to an enlargement of the left ventricle. This puts more pressure on the heart to produce oxygen, which leads to ischemia, a decreased blood flow to heart tissue, eventually leading to heart failure.
2. Stroke
Hypertension is the most potent risk factor for stroke, the second leading cause of deaths worldwide. The likelihood of stroke is particularly high among individuals with elevated systolic blood pressure, especially those aged over 65. Early intervention and treatment can significantly reduce mortality rates.
Also read: How ‘breath training’ can help reduce high blood pressure
3. Impaired cognition
Midlife hypertension has emerged as a factor for cognitive decline in later years. The deposition of a protein called beta-amyloid is often followed by dementia. Cognition can also be affected by the occlusion of large blood vessels in the brain's white matter. Gradually, individuals may experience difficulty comprehending information they would typically understand and face hindered reasoning capabilities, becoming a part of their daily struggles.
4. Encephalopathy
Encephalopathy encompasses brain diseases that impair brain function or alter its structure. Symptoms may include projectile vomiting, changes in mental status, and severe headaches. If left untreated, encephalopathy can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.
5. Benign Nephrosclerosis
This type of renal (kidney) disease is often observed during the benign phase of hypertension, and its severity is amplified when accompanied by diabetes mellitus. It involves the thickening of blood vessel walls, the shrinking of glomeruli responsible for blood filtration in the kidneys, and fibrosis. Symptoms may include headaches, palpitations, and dizziness.
How to prevent hypertension
Preventing such complications requires simple yet significant lifestyle changes that may initially seem daunting but will undoubtedly prove beneficial in the long run.
1. Quit smoking
It narrows blood vessels due to elevated levels of carbon monoxide and nicotine. Quitting can have positive effects on blood pressure.
2. Make dietary adjustments
3. Reduce salt intake
4. Practice meditation to manage stress
5. Exercise regularly and utilize that gym membership that you may have neglected
6. Increase fibre intake, reduce alcohol consumption
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