Hypertension
Hypertension is a condition where the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high. It often presents no symptoms but can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss.
Symptoms
- Often asymptomatic
- Severe cases may present headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds
Complications
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss
Medications
- Diuretics: Help reduce fluid buildup.
- ACE Inhibitors: Relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily.
- Beta-Blockers: Lower heart rate and blood pressure.
Lifestyle Considerations
- Regular exercise
- Balanced diet low in salt
- Weight management
- Stress reduction techniques, such as meditation
Effective management of hypertension includes a combination of medication and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of serious complications.