Hypertension is a common cardiovascular condition, primarily seen in older adults aged 50 and above. However, this condition is now increasingly affecting younger age groups. Despite its silent progression, hypertension can lead to severe health complications. Alarmingly, many patients remain complacent about treatment or fail to attend regular check-ups, only realising the dangers when the condition worsens, or complications arise.

So, what are the symptoms, causes, and treatment for this condition? Let’s explore the answers with experts from Hoan My Gold PXL.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension (commonly known as high blood pressure) is a chronic condition that occurs when the pressure of blood against the arterial walls is too high. High blood pressure places an increased burden on the heart and is a major cause of severe cardiovascular complications, such as: Stroke, heart failure, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction,…

Symptoms of hypertension

In most cases, hypertension does not exhibit obvious symptoms, which makes it difficult for patients to identify – even when the condition has become serious. However, some individuals may experience mild symptoms such as: Headaches, shortness of breath (dyspnea) or nosebleeds (rarely).

Headache can be a symptom of high blood pressure.

Who is at risk of developing hypertension?

There are certain groups of people who are more prone to hypertension.

• Older adults: The elasticity of blood vessel walls diminishes with age, increasing susceptibility to high blood pressure.
• Gender: Men under 45 are more likely to develop hypertension, while postmenopausal women face a higher risk compared to men in the same age range.
• Family history: Individuals with a family history of cardiovascular diseases (parents or siblings) are at higher risk.

Additional risk factors also include:
– Being overweight or obese
– Having a sedentary lifestyle
– Having unhealthy eating habits
– Intaking excessive salt
– Abusing alcohol
– Smoking
– Frequent stress

Treatments for hypertension

The primary goal of hypertension treatment is to stabilise blood pressure at a target level, typically below 140/90 mmHg. Below is key treatment and prevention methods that you shouldn’t skip.

1. Lifestyle Modifications
Non-medication approaches play a critical role in hypertension management. Here are some recommendations from expert:
– Following a healthy, low-sodium diet
– Increasing potassium intake in meals
– Staying hydrated
– Engaging in regular physical activity
– Limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking
– Monitoring blood pressure regularly

Exercise helps improve health and stabilise blood pressure. Source: Internet

2. Adherence to treatment plans
Take medication as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop or adjust dosage without consulting a healthcare professional.

3. Regular follow-up appointments
Routine medical check-ups allow doctors to monitor your condition, adjust treatment plans, and prevent complications.

4. Frequent blood pressure monitoring
Regularly measuring blood pressure is an effective way to assess cardiovascular and detect abnormalities early. Consulting a doctor and adhering to prescribed medications can help maintain stable blood pressure, reducing the risk of serious complications.

Expert recommendations for the community

Hypertension is not a condition that can be “cured in one go”, it requires long-term management and conscious efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Proactive health check-ups and maintaining a scientific lifestyle are the keys to preventing and managing this disease. Let Hoan My Gold PXL help you and your family stay protected from the complications of hypertension. Take action today to safeguard your health and your heart!

For consultation and booking an appointment, please contact us at (028) 3990 3995 or 0901 840 678.

This article has been medically reviewed by Dinh Thi Xuan Mai, MD, MSc – Endocrinology and General Internal Medicine Specialist at Hoan My Gold PXL Medical Center.