Understanding Hypertension: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when the force of the blood against the walls of your arteries is consistently too high. This puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, which is why it’s known as the "silent killer."

Causes and Risk Factors

Hypertension can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Genetics and family history

• Poor diet, especially a high-salt diet

• Lack of physical activity

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• Stress and smoking

Age is another significant factor, as the risk increases as you get older.

Prevention and Management

Managing hypertension is crucial to reducing the risk of complications. Preventive measures include:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods

• Reducing salt intake

• Exercising regularly

• Limiting alcohol consumption

• Quitting smoking

• Managing stress

For those already diagnosed with hypertension, medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or beta-blockers can help control blood pressure levels. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes are key to maintaining healthy blood pressure.