Blood pressure

General Information About High Blood Pressure

"High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common health issue, affecting approximately one in four adults." It represents a major risk factor for stroke and heart attack. Chronic hypertension can lead to diabetes, kidney disease, and heart failure.

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The systolic reading (top number) reflects pressure when the heart contracts, while the diastolic reading (bottom number) indicates resting pressure. Healthy adult blood pressure typically ranges from 100–140/60–90 mmHg. Hypertension occurs when either or both values exceed normal ranges.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

"High blood pressure is often asymptomatic, which is why it is frequently detected during routine health checks." Some people experience mild symptoms like headaches or fatigue.

Extended hypertension damages multiple organs:

• Heart: Arrhythmias, heart failure, enlarged heart
• Blood vessels: Narrowing, reduced circulation
• Eyes: Retinal bleeding, swelling
• Kidneys: Damage to kidney blood vessels

Causes of High Blood Pressure

"Age is the most common contributor to increased blood pressure." Additional risk factors include genetics, poor eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, stress, and smoking. Rarely, underlying conditions like hormonal disorders or kidney disease cause hypertension.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Blood pressure monitoring uses a blood pressure monitor. Treatment depends on comprehensive health assessment including body mass index, age, family history, existing conditions, medications, and lab results. Blood and urine tests evaluate glucose, lipid, and electrolyte levels. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may reveal heart rhythm issues.

Treatment combines medication and lifestyle modifications, including increased physical activity, reduced salt intake, and smoking cessation.

Self-Care Instructions

Lifestyle modifications significantly impact blood pressure management. Dietary changes and exercise can lower blood pressure while improving cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Tips for lowering blood pressure:

• Exercise: Regular physical activity supports cardiovascular health
• Limit salt intake: Excessive salt elevates blood pressure
• Weight management: Losing weight, particularly abdominal fat, reduces blood pressure
• Stress management: Implement daily stress reduction techniques
• Limit alcohol consumption: Moderate consumption supports pressure control
• Quit smoking: Smoking raises pressure and damages vessels

When to seek medical care?

Contact a healthcare provider if blood pressure consistently exceeds 140/90. Pregnant individuals with readings above 140–160/90–110 need medical attention. Seek emergency care when high blood pressure accompanies severe headaches, shortness of breath, or exceeds 200/120.

How Can Dokport Help?

Dokport's online medical clinic assists with blood pressure management. Doctors evaluate conditions through chat consultations, provide treatment guidance, or renew prescriptions as needed. In-person visits may be recommended when appropriate.