By SHUDDHI WELLNESS

hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, untreated hypertension can cause serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and more. The condition can often go unnoticed due to its "silent" nature, as many people with high blood pressure may not exhibit noticeable symptoms. In Ayurveda, hypertension is typically associated with an imbalance in the Vata and Pitta doshas, where stress, poor diet, and lifestyle choices can lead to increased blood pressure.

Understanding hypertension

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. This condition is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no obvious symptoms, yet it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

Blood pressure is measured in two values:

  • Systolic Pressure: The pressure when your heart beats and pumps blood.
  • Diastolic Pressure: The pressure when your heart rests between beats.

A normal blood pressure reading is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure consistently exceeds 130/80 mmHg.

Symptoms of Hypertension

1. Headaches

2. Shortness of Breath

3. Nosebleeds

4. Dizziness

Common Causes of hypertension

gene

genetics

Hypertension due to genetics occurs when a family history of high blood pressure increases an individual's risk. Inherited factors can affect blood vessel function, kidney regulation, and hormone balance, leading to higher blood pressure, often requiring lifestyle changes and medication management.

diet

unhealthy diet

Hypertension due to an unhealthy diet is often caused by excessive salt, processed foods, and unhealthy fats, which can lead to increased blood pressure. Poor diet disrupts fluid balance, strains the heart, and raises the risk of cardiovascular disease.

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Lack of Physical Activity

Hypertension due to lack of physical activity occurs when a sedentary lifestyle weakens the heart, causing it to pump harder to circulate blood. This leads to increased blood pressure, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke over time.

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Stress

Hypertension due to stress happens when chronic stress triggers the release of hormones like adrenaline, which temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, constant stress can contribute to sustained high blood pressure, raising the risk of heart disease.

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Obesity

Hypertension due to obesity occurs when excess body fat increases strain on the heart and blood vessels. Obesity leads to higher blood volume and resistance, raising blood pressure, and increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke.

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Tobacco and Alcohol Use

Hypertension due to tobacco and alcohol use occurs when nicotine constricts blood vessels and alcohol raises blood pressure. Both substances increase heart rate, promote inflammation, and damage blood vessels, leading to long-term elevated blood pressure and higher cardiovascular risks.

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Age

Hypertension due to age occurs as blood vessels naturally lose elasticity and become stiffer over time, increasing resistance and raising blood pressure. Older adults are more likely to experience hypertension, which elevates the risk of heart disease and stroke.

FAQs of hypertension

(Frequently Asked Questions)
What is hypertension?

Hypertension is high blood pressure, where the force of blood against artery walls is too strong, potentially leading to heart disease and stroke.

What causes hypertension?

Factors include genetics, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, stress, obesity, smoking, alcohol, and aging.

How is hypertension diagnosed?
It's diagnosed through repeated blood pressure measurements by a healthcare provider.
What are the symptoms of hypertension?

Often called the "silent killer," hypertension has no noticeable symptoms but may cause headaches, dizziness, or chest pain.

How is hypertension treated?
Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications, and monitoring blood pressure regularly.

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