What is Hypertension?
By Rohit Masih, MD
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a condition in which the blood force against the body’s blood vessels is consistently too high. Think of it like too much pressure in a garden hose. Over time, that pressure can cause damage.
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (top number): Pressure when the heart squeezes blood to the rest of the body
- Diastolic pressure (bottom number): Pressure when the heart relaxes between beats
Normal blood pressure is usually anywhere from 100/60 to 130/80 mmHg. If your numbers are 130/80 or higher, the majority of the time, you may have high blood pressure.
Q: Why is hypertension important?
A: Hypertension often has no obvious signs or symptoms; it can lead to serious health issues if left unmanaged. That is why it is often called the “silent killer.” It can affect multiple organs of the body and is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Catching it early through regular check-ups is important. Even if you feel fine, unmanaged high blood pressure can cause damage over time.
Q: What are the dangers of high blood pressure?
A: The dangers of high blood pressure can be a lot more than one thinks. If not controlled, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease. This includes heart attacks, increased thickness of the heart muscle, and/or congestive heart failure. Additionally, it also raises the risk of having a stroke or kidney damage which can ultimately lead to the need for dialysis.
Q: How can you track your blood pressure?
A: You can use a home blood pressure monitor which is available at most drug stores. Alternatively, many pharmacies offer free or low-cost blood pressure checks. Importantly, blood pressure can vary and should be taken as follows:
- Blood pressure machine should be at the heart level, while seated in a chair and the back supported.
- One should be relaxed.
- After placing the blood pressure cuff, wait for five mins and then press the button on the blood pressure machine.
Q: Can I treat or lower It?
Yes, through lifestyle changes and medication.
Some examples of lifestyle changes include reducing sodium intake; ideally under 2000 mg/day; keeping dietary fat and cholesterol intake at a minimum; exercising regularly for at least 150 minutes of moderate level activity every week; keeping stress at a minimum using techniques such as yoga and meditation; and limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking.
Sometimes, lifestyle changes are not enough. Your provider may prescribe medicine to help manage your blood pressure. It is important to take the medication as prescribed, even on days that you feel well, to prevent long-term complications.
Final Thoughts
Hypertension is common, but it does not have to control your life. With regular monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and treatment when needed, you can reduce your risk of serious complications and lead a healthy life. Do not wait for symptoms; check your blood pressure regularly.
Rohit Masih, MD, is a cardiology fellow at UNC Health Southeastern. In addition to offering services you’d expect from a community healthcare system, UNC Health Southeastern provides a number of specialized services that are unique to our system and not available anywhere else in the region. To schedule an appointment, call our referral line at 984-974-CARE. To learn more, visit UNCHealthSE.org. To submit questions for consideration for a Frequently Asked Questions article, email unchsoutheasterninfo@unchealth.unc.edu.
