Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues. It’s often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no symptoms until it reaches a severe stage. Here’s an overview of its causes, diagnosis, complications, and management:

1. Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
• Systolic Pressure (top number): Pressure in arteries when the heart beats.
• Diastolic Pressure (bottom number): Pressure in arteries between beats.
• Normal Range: Less than 120/80 mm Hg.
• Hypertension:
o Stage 1: 130-139/80-89 mm Hg.
o Stage 2: 140/90 mm Hg or higher.
o Hypertensive Crisis: 180/120 mm Hg or higher, requiring immediate medical attention.

2. Causes and Risk Factors
• Primary Hypertension: No identifiable cause, usually develops gradually over years.
• Secondary Hypertension: Caused by underlying conditions (e.g., kidney disease, adrenal gland issues, or certain medications).
• Risk Factors:
o Age: Risk increases as you age.
o Family History: Genetics can play a role.
o Lifestyle: Poor diet (high in salt, fat, and processed foods), lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol.
o Obesity: Excess weight increases pressure on the artery walls.
o Stress: Chronic stress may contribute to high blood pressure.

3. Symptoms of Severe Hypertension
• Most people experience no symptoms, but severe hypertension can cause:
o Headaches, especially in the morning.
o Shortness of breath.
o Nosebleeds.
o Chest pain or pounding in the chest, neck, or ears.
• Hypertensive Crisis symptoms include vision problems, confusion, severe headaches, or shortness of breath.

4. Complications
• Heart Attack and Stroke: High blood pressure can harden arteries, leading to clots.
• Heart Failure: Over time, the heart has to work harder, leading to an enlarged or weakened heart.
• Kidney Damage: Can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, affecting their filtering ability.
• Vision Loss: Can cause blood vessels in the eyes to thicken or burst.
• Metabolic Syndrome: Increases risk for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

5. Diagnosis
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regular readings, often over several weeks, to confirm a diagnosis.
• Ambulatory Monitoring: A 24-hour test to check blood pressure at various times.
• Additional Tests: Blood tests, urinalysis, ECG, or echocardiogram to identify secondary causes and assess organ damage.

6. Management and Treatment
• Lifestyle Changes:
o Healthy Diet: The DASH diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy) can lower blood pressure. Reducing salt intake is key.
o Regular Exercise: 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity (like walking or swimming).
o Weight Management: Losing excess weight can significantly reduce blood pressure.
o Limit Alcohol: Keep alcohol intake moderate (up to one drink per day for women and two for men).
o Quit Smoking: Smoking cessation improves heart and vascular health.
o Stress Management: Techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help.
• Medications:
o Diuretics: Help remove excess salt and water from the body.
o ACE Inhibitors: Help relax blood vessels.
o ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers): Relax blood vessels.
o Calcium Channel Blockers: Help blood vessels relax and open.
o Beta-Blockers: Reduce heart rate and the force of the heart’s contractions.

7. Monitoring and Follow-Up
• Home Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regular self-monitoring can help manage and track progress.
• Regular Check-Ups: Routine visits with a healthcare provider to adjust treatment as needed and monitor for potential complications.