Overview
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a condition where the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
Symptoms
Often no noticeable symptoms (silent condition) Headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds in severe cases Shortness of breath or chest pain in extreme situations
Causes
Primary hypertension: genetic and lifestyle factors Secondary hypertension: underlying medical conditions (kidney disease, hormonal disorders) Obesity, high salt diet, stress, smoking, and alcohol use
Diagnosis
Repeated blood pressure measurements Physical examination and patient history Blood tests and imaging for secondary causes
Treatment
Lifestyle changes: diet, exercise, weight management Medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics Regular monitoring and follow-up
Complications
Heart attack and heart failure Stroke and aneurysm Kidney disease and vision problems
Prevention
Maintain healthy weight and diet Exercise regularly and reduce stress Limit alcohol, salt intake, and avoid smoking Regular blood pressure checks