High Blood Pressure: Symptoms & Causes

Blood pressure readings assess the volume of blood flowing through vessels and the resistance it encounters during heart contractions. High blood pressure, known as hypertension, occurs when the force of blood moving through vessels remains consistently elevated. This article explores the essentials of hypertension, including symptoms and causes.
Blood Pressure Readings Simplified
Blood pressure readings comprise:-
- Systolic pressure (upper number): Pressure during heart contractions
- Diastolic pressure (lower number): Pressure during heart relaxation
Blood pressure categories for adults are:-
- Healthy: Systolic pressure is less than 120 mm Hg, and diastolic pressure is less than 80 mm Hg (120/80).
- Elevated: Systolic value is between 120–129 mm Hg, diastolic pressure is kept below 80 mm Hg.
- Stage 1 Hypertension: Systolic values range from 130–139 mmHg, or diastolic values are less than or equal to 80–89 mmHg.
- Stage 2 Hypertension: Systolic and diastolic pressure are equal to or greater than 140/90 mm Hg, respectively.
- Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic value more than 180 mm Hg or diastolic value more than 120 mm Hg.
Consider immediate medical treatment from the best cardiologist for heart failure when experiencing:
- chest pain
- extremely severe headache
- breathlessness.
Blood pressure measurements require a well-fitted cuff for accuracy. Children and adolescents cover a different reading spectrum. Hence, they must see a paediatrician regarding targets for the levels.
Causes of Hypertension
Hypertension is classified into two types:-
- Primary
- Secondary
Primary Hypertension
This syndrome, or essential hypertension, slowly emerges, usually as a consequence of polyfactorial causes:-
- Genetics: Family history or genetic predispositions.
- Age: Risk increases for individuals over 65.
- Race: Black individuals have a higher prevalence due to both systemic and genetic factors.
- Obesity: Excess weight is linked to cardiovascular conditions.
- High alcohol consumption: Regular intake, even one daily drink, raises risks.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Reduced activity levels correlate with heart issues.
- Diabetes or metabolic syndrome: Both conditions heighten hypertension risks.
- Excess sodium intake: Daily consumption over 5 g is associated with higher blood pressure.
Secondary Hypertension
Secondary hypertension can rise rapidly and is likely to progress.
Potential causes include:-
- Kidney disorders
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Congenital heart abnormalities
- Thyroid or adrenal gland dysfunction
- Endocrine-related tumours
- Side effects from specific medications
Read More : Hypertension And Heart Disease Types And Symptoms
Recognising Hypertension Symptoms
Hypertension also has a silent presentation, such as in an asymptomatic patient. Symptoms may never appear for several years, and even when they do, they may be written off even as artefacts of unrelated causes.
For severe hypertension, symptoms may include:-
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Vision changes
- Chest or back pain
- Breathing difficulties
As per the best cardiologist in Hyderabad, consistent measurement of blood pressure levels is the best-known method to detect the disease in its early stage.
Health Impacts of Hypertension
Hypertension may silently damage the body gradually until it manifests as symptoms. Without treatment, severe or fatal complications may occur. Artery injuries compromise their elasticity and thus sustain the deposition continuing of hemodynamic flow and organ function.
Potential complications include:-
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Arrhythmia
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease or failure
- Vision loss
- Cognitive decline, including dementia
- Sexual dysfunction
Conclusion
Hypertension is a silent but serious medical condition that can seriously affect the person if it is not well controlled. Routine surveillance and early intervention using pharmacologic therapy and lifestyle interventions are proven to reduce critical organ damage.
Dr Raghu, internationally renowned and one of the top heart specialists in Hyderabad, possesses an enviable track record in managing hypertension and cardiovascular disorders. He puts forth a patient-centred model delivering holistic care for cardiovascular health and an excellent overall functional status.