Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic condition in which the force of blood against the artery walls remains consistently elevated. It is one of the most common health problems worldwide, affecting millions of people of all ages—and it often progresses silently.
As one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke, hypertension is considered a major global public health concern. Early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle habits, and—in some cases—medication are essential to controlling the condition.
What Is Hypertension?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the artery walls as the heart pumps. It is recorded in two numbers:
Systolic pressure: when the heart contracts to pump blood.
Diastolic pressure: when the heart relaxes between beats.
Readings equal to or higher than 140/90 mmHg on different occasions typically indicate hypertension. Ideal levels are considered to be around 120/80 mmHg.
Causes and Risk Factors
Most cases of hypertension have no single identifiable cause (primary hypertension). However, several factors can significantly increase the risk:
Family history of hypertension
Advanced age
Obesity and overweight
Diet high in salt and fats
Physical inactivity
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Chronic stress
Certain kidney, endocrine, or heart diseases
Symptoms of Hypertension
Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because most people show no clear symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are usually linked to very high blood pressure levels and may include:
Frequent headaches
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Blurred vision
Heart palpitations
Nosebleeds in more severe cases
Because symptoms are not always present, regular blood pressure checks are essential—even without obvious signs.
Risks and Complications
Uncontrolled hypertension can gradually damage the body, leading to serious complications such as:
Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
Stroke (cerebrovascular accident)
Heart failure
Chronic kidney disease
Aortic aneurysm
Vision problems (hypertensive retinopathy)
These risks highlight the importance of keeping blood pressure under control.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on repeated blood pressure measurements taken on different occasions. Doctors may also request lab tests and imaging exams to check for damage to organs such as the kidneys, heart, and blood vessels.
Home monitoring devices are also very useful for tracking blood pressure daily.
Treatment for Hypertension
Treatment typically combines lifestyle changes with medication when necessary. Key recommendations include:
Healthy diet: rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low in salt and processed foods.
Weight control: even modest weight loss can help reduce blood pressure.
Regular physical activity: at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Avoid alcohol and tobacco: both contribute to high blood pressure.
Stress management: relaxation techniques, meditation, and adequate sleep.
The most commonly prescribed medications include:
Diuretics
ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors)
ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers)
Beta-blockers
Calcium channel blockers
Treatment must always be individualized and supervised by a physician.
Prevention
Preventing hypertension is closely linked to healthy lifestyle habits. Small daily changes—such as reducing salt intake, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking—greatly reduce the risk.
Insights and Scientific Advances
Fact: About 1 in 3 adults worldwide has high blood pressure, but many are unaware of their condition.
Research: Recent studies suggest the gut microbiota may play a role in blood pressure regulation, as imbalances in intestinal bacteria could influence hypertension risk.
Myth: “Hypertension only affects older adults.”
Truth: Although more common after age 60, hypertension can also affect young adults and even children, especially if risk factors are present.
Final Considerations
Hypertension is a chronic, silent, and dangerous condition—but it can be effectively controlled with early diagnosis, medical follow-up, and lifestyle changes. Proper treatment significantly reduces the risk of serious complications and improves both life expectancy and quality of life.
Monitoring blood pressure regularly and adopting healthy habits are simple yet life-saving measures.
