Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this increased pressure can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic (the pressure when your heart beats) and diastolic (the pressure when your heart rests between beats). A normal reading is generally below 120/80 mmHg. Readings consistently above this range may indicate hypertension.

While hypertension often has no obvious symptoms, it is a leading cause of preventable illness and death. Routine monitoring and lifestyle changes can help manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.

Risk factors for hypertension include:

Age: Risk increases with age, especially after age 60.
Family history: A family history of high blood pressure increases risk.
Obesity: Excess weight strains the heart and blood vessels.
Inactivity: Lack of physical activity can contribute to high blood pressure.
High-sodium diet: Too much salt can raise blood pressure.
Alcohol and tobacco use: Both can elevate blood pressure.
Chronic stress: Persistent stress may contribute to hypertension.

Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it usually has no noticeable symptoms. In severe cases, symptoms may include:

Headaches: Particularly in the morning.
Dizziness: Lightheadedness or feeling faint.
Blurred vision: May occur with high blood pressure.
Nosebleeds: Uncommon but possible in severe cases.

To manage hypertension, consider these coping strategies:

Healthy eating: Follow the DASH diet — rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy.
Physical activity: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.
Limit salt intake: Reduce sodium in your diet.
Stress management: Use relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
Avoid tobacco and alcohol: Limit or eliminate these substances.

Lifestyle modifications – Adopting a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing sodium intake to less than 2,300mg daily
Regular physical activity – Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise weekly to strengthen the cardiovascular system
Antihypertensive medications – Prescription drugs including ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and beta-blockers to control blood pressure
Stress management – Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga to reduce blood pressure-raising stress hormones

Hypertension

Overview

Key Information

Risk Factors

Symptoms

Coping Strategies

Treatments That May Help

Supplements

Cocoa (Chocolate)

Dietary Management

Forest Bathing

Biofeedback

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

Vitamin D3 + K2 Complex

Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols)

Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone)

Tribulus Terrestris

Research on This Condition

Preserving Muscle During Weight Loss in Older Adults

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Common Treatments