Arterial Hypertension
Hypertension - high blood pressure - is one of the most common health problems. It is a condition in which the pressure of the blood against the artery walls is persistently elevated, which overloads the heart and damages the blood vessels. It is worth noting that it often progresses unnoticed. That is exactly why it is important to see your doctor for regular check-ups.
Arterial hypertension increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and, left untreated, can end in severe consequences. It affects countless people around the world. It is often called the "silent killer" because it tends to progress without symptoms.
The development of hypertension often depends on both genetic factors and lifestyle. For this reason, reducing the risks is only possible by building healthy habits and maintaining regular medical monitoring.
What hypertension is, what the methods of diagnosis and treatment are, the symptoms of the condition, and when you should see a doctor — this blog answers these and other important questions.
Arterial Hypertension Symptoms — How to Recognize It in Time?
It should be noted that hypertension often progresses without symptoms. That is why timely diagnosis is only possible through regular monitoring. Ignoring high blood pressure increases the risk of serious complications such as stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease.
Some symptoms may appear when blood pressure is very high (as a rule, 180/120 or above). These are:
- chest pain;
- dizziness and shortness of breath;
- nausea and vomiting;
- ringing in the ears and nosebleeds;
- severe headache;
- anxiety and confusion;
- worsening or changes in vision;
- irregular heartbeat.
If these symptoms appear, see a doctor immediately. Timely diagnosis and specialist intervention will help you avoid the risk of complications.
It is also important to know that blood pressure is recorded with two numbers. The first (systolic) number indicates the pressure in the vessels when the heart contracts, while the second (diastolic) number indicates the pressure in the vessels when the heart is at rest (between contractions).
What Is Essential Hypertension and How Does It Differ from Secondary Hypertension?
Essential hypertension (also called primary hypertension) is the most common form of high blood pressure, one that has no single, clearly identifiable medical cause. It is often caused by genetic predisposition, lifestyle, an unhealthy diet, or stress.
Put simply, this is blood pressure that develops on its own over time and is not driven by a disease of some other organ (for example, the kidney or the thyroid gland).
Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, is a rise in blood pressure that has a specific cause, such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or vascular problems. This type of hypertension can be identified through special examinations. A kidney ultrasound may also be ordered (to rule out secondary hypertension). All of this helps the doctor understand the causes.
More specifically, the possible causes of essential hypertension can be:
- genetics — a history of hypertension in the family;
- lifestyle — a salty diet, lack of physical activity, stress.
Timely management of essential hypertension significantly reduces the risk of complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems.
Arterial Hypertension: Treatment and Diagnosis
As we have already noted, arterial hypertension often progresses without symptoms. That is precisely why its timely diagnosis is especially important. The first step is measuring blood pressure regularly. If the readings are repeatedly high, the doctor will order additional examinations to determine the causes and assess the risk of complications.
During the consultation, the doctor — a therapist or cardiologist — carries out a comprehensive assessment. They examine the patient's genetics, lifestyle, and dietary habits. Then they examine the patient physically — listening to the heart and lungs and checking the pulse. In addition, they assess the risks, specifically determining whether the patient has conditions that affect blood pressure.
As a rule, the following examinations are ordered:
- blood tests (glucose, cholesterol, kidney function);
- echocardiography (heart ultrasound) — to assess the structure and function of the heart;
- 24-hour Holter monitoring — to observe changes in heart rhythm.
As for the treatment of hypertension, it includes lifestyle changes, medication control, and regular monitoring. More specifically, a change in lifestyle means reducing salt, engaging in regular physical activity, limiting alcohol, and managing stress. Medication treatment may include the use of diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or beta-blockers. Keep in mind that these are prescribed individually, under a doctor's supervision.
How to Control Blood Pressure Day to Day?
Controlling hypertension in everyday life significantly reduces the risk of complications and helps maintain the health of the cardiovascular system. There are several things you can do.
Diet — Reducing Salt
To control blood pressure effectively, limiting salt is essential. It is worth noting that a daily intake of less than 5 grams of salt is recommended. Balancing your food is also important. Your diet should include plenty of fruit, vegetables, and vitamin-rich foods.
Physical Activity
Regular physical exercise, such as running or brisk walking, helps lower blood pressure and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
Managing Stress
Blood pressure is often raised precisely by stress. That is why it is important to learn to manage stress, get enough sleep, and, if needed, do breathing exercises.
Regular Monitoring
Often, continuous monitoring of blood pressure plays a decisive role. As a rule, a diagnosis of hypertension is not made based on a single high reading. Blood pressure needs to be re-checked.
When Should You See a Cardiologist?
Arterial hypertension requires timely assessment and the involvement of a specialist, because high blood pressure left unattended can cause serious complications. There are specific cases in which a visit to a cardiologist is essential.
You should see a doctor if you have persistent symptoms such as headache, dizziness, palpitations, or weakness. These signs may point to either hypertension or its complications.
It is also important to pay attention to high readings. If your blood pressure repeatedly exceeds 140/90 mm Hg, this already requires professional assessment and appropriate treatment.
Through a timely consultation, you may be able to avoid complications such as a heart attack or a stroke.
It is important to know that Todua Clinic's cardiology department is staffed with qualified, caring doctors — people who know their work well and care about their patients' health.
Get in touch and schedule a visit with a cardiologist: 032 2 57 57 57
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Is a complete cure for hypertension possible?
Essential hypertension is a chronic condition. Fully "getting rid of" it is, in most cases, impossible; however, with proper management, the patient lives a full life with normal blood pressure readings. In the case of secondary hypertension, curing the underlying disease may lead to the normalization of blood pressure.
If I feel well, can I stop taking my blood pressure medication?
No. Hypertension often progresses without symptoms. Therefore, feeling well does not mean that the disease has gone away. Stopping medication on your own causes a sharp rise in blood pressure, which increases the risk of critical complications. Also remember that changing the dose of a specific medication is solely within the doctor's competence.
How is the treatment approach determined, and what does the arterial hypertension guideline tell us?
According to modern medical standards, the arterial hypertension guideline defines specific stages of treatment based on the patient's risk factors. If blood pressure is above 140/90, the guideline recommends starting medication treatment along with lifestyle changes. This is important to prevent cardiovascular complications such as stroke and heart attack.