Blood Pressure: Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease : Your online pharmacy selection

What is blood pressure and why is it important to our health?

Blood pressure is a measure of the force exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries. It is crucial in determining how blood circulates through the body and nourishes vital organs. Understanding your blood pressure is essential to prevent the risks associated with values that are too high or too low, such as heart attack, stroke orkidney failure.

How is blood pressure measured?

Blood pressure is generally measured using a device called a tensiometer, which can be either manual or electronic. This measurement is expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and records two values:

• Systolic pressure (the top number) indicates the pressure of the blood during heartbeats.
• Diastolic pressure (the lower number) represents blood pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

What are normal blood pressure levels?

Blood pressure levels are generally categorized as follows:

• Normal: less than 120/80 mmHg.
• High: between 120/80 and 129/84 mmHg.
• Stage 1 hypertension: between 130/85 and 139/89 mmHg.
• Stage 2 hypertension: 140/90 mmHg or more.

What causes hypertension?

Hypertension can be caused by a variety of factors, including

• Genetic factors: A family predisposition may play a role.
• Lifestyle: Smoking, a diet high in sodium, low potassium intake, lack of physical activity and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Medical conditions: Certain chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity.

How can hypertension be managed or prevented?

Managinghypertension often involves lifestyle adjustments:

• Balanced diet: Adopt a low-salt diet rich in fruit and vegetables.
• Regular exercise: Physical activity can help maintain normal blood pressure.
• Regular monitoring: Check your blood pressure regularly for any changes.
• Medication: In some cases, medication may be required to control hypertension.

What are the risks of uncontrolled blood pressure?

Failure to control your blood pressure can lead to serious complications such as:

• Heart disease: Including myocardial infarction and heart failure.
• STROKE: Hypertension can cause damage to blood vessels in the brain, leading to stroke.
• Kidney problems: High blood pressure can damage the kidneys and affect their function.

What symptoms may indicate hypertension?

Hypertension is often dubbed the "silent killer" because it doesn't always present obvious symptoms. However, there are some warning signs, including:

• Frequent headaches: especially those that occur in the morning.
• Dizziness: feeling light-headed or unbalanced.
• Visual disturbances: blurred vision or temporary visual disturbances.
• Heart palpitations: sensation of a strong or rapidly beating heart. It's vital to measure your blood pressure regularly, even if there are no symptoms.

How does stress affect blood pressure?

Stress can have a direct and significant impact on blood pressure. During a stressful episode, the body produces hormones that can temporarily raise blood pressure by constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate. Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga can help control blood pressure.

Can hypertension be reversed without medication?

In some cases, it is possible to reduce blood pressure without medication, by making significant lifestyle changes:

• Reduce salt intake: Limit sodium intake to less than 2,000 mg per day.
• Increased physical activity: At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Weight loss: Every kilogram lost can reduce blood pressure.
• Alcohol restriction: No more than one drink a day for women and two for men. These adjustments can be very effective, especially when applied together.

Can hypertension affect pregnancy?

Yes,hypertension during pregnancy can present risks for both mother and baby. It can lead to conditions such as pre-eclampsia, which is serious and requires medical supervision. Effective management of hypertension before and during pregnancy is essential to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Are there age-related differences in the management of hypertension?

Absolutely.Hypertension management often varies according to age, due to specific physiological and risk factors:

• In young adults: the emphasis is on lifestyle changes and weight control.
• In middle-aged adults: prevention of heart disease becomes a priority, often combining medication and lifestyle modifications.
• Seniors: special attention is paid to medication to avoid side effects due to drug interactions, taking into account the possible presence of other chronic conditions.