Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition where the force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease. It’s often called the “silent killer” because it doesn’t always show symptoms but can lead to serious health issues. So, what causes hypertension? Let’s dive in.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension is when your blood pressure, the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels, is consistently too high. There are mainly two types: primary (essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension. Most people have primary hypertension, which develops over time with no identifiable cause, while secondary hypertension is caused by underlying conditions that affect organs like the kidneys or heart.
Primary Causes of Hypertension
- Genetics and Family History: Just like eye color, blood pressure can run in families. If your parents or siblings have hypertension, your chances are higher.
- Age: The older you get, the more likely you are to get high blood pressure as your blood vessels naturally become stiffer.
- Lifestyle Choices:
- Diet: Eating too much salt (sodium) and not enough fruits and vegetables can raise your blood pressure.
- Physical Activity: Not getting enough exercise can lead to weight gain, which is a leading cause of hypertension.
- Alcohol and Tobacco: Both can raise your blood pressure. Smoking also damages your blood vessel walls, making them narrower and increasing your heart rate.
Secondary Causes of Hypertension
Sometimes, a specific condition or medicine triggers hypertension. Common culprits include kidney disease, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, and certain medications like birth control pills, decongestants, and pain relievers.
How Can You Prevent or Manage Hypertension?
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt, sugar, and fats.
- Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, like brisk walking, each week.
- Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Regular checks can help you see what’s working and when to talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
Understanding the causes of hypertension can help you take the right steps to manage your health. Simple changes in lifestyle can make a big difference in preventing high blood pressure and maintaining a healthy heart.
If you have any queries related to medical health, consult Subhash Goyal or his team members on this given no +91 88008 25789, +91 99150 99575, +918283060000
