Clinical & Experimental Cardiology
Open Access

Determination of Diagnosis and Treatment for Hypertension

Josef Hager^{* *}Correspondence: Josef Hager, Department of Cardiology, University Clinic of Surgery, Innsbruck, Austria, Email:

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Description

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a widespread medical condition that impacts millions of people globally. It is characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure levels that can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss. This article will provide an overview of hypertension, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Causes of hypertension

Hypertension can be caused by a variety of factors, including lifestyle choices, genetics, and underlying medical conditions. The following are a few of the most typical reasons of hypertension:

Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing hypertension.

Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to high blood pressure.

Smoking: Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of hypertension.

Family history: Hypertension tends to run in families, so if parents or siblings have high blood pressure, other family members are more likely to develop it.

Age: Blood pressure tends to increase as old age occurs.

Race: Some races, including African Americans, are more prone to developing hypertension.

Chronic kidney disease: Kidney disease can lead to hypertension.

Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing is interrupted during sleep, and it is associated with hypertension.

Symptoms of hypertension

In many cases, hypertension does not cause any symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as the "silent killer." However, some people with hypertension may experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, chest pain, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so it is important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosis of hypertension

Hypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure. Blood pressure is measured using a device called a sphygmomanometer, which consists of a cuff that is wrapped around the upper arm and inflated to restrict blood flow. A stethoscope is used to listen for the sound of blood flowing through the arteries, and the pressure is recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (the higher number) and diastolic pressure (the lower number). A diagnosis of hypertension is made when the systolic pressure is consistently higher than 140 mmHg or the diastolic pressure is consistently higher than 90 mmHg. However, a diagnosis of hypertension cannot be made based on a single reading, so multiple readings are usually taken over time to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of hypertension

The goal of treatment for hypertension is to lower blood pressure to a healthy range and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both. Some lifestyle changes that can help lower blood pressure include:

• Losing weight, if a person is over weight or obese.

• Increasing physical activity

• Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt, saturated fat, and processed foods

• Quitting smoking

• Limiting alcohol consumption

• Managing stress

In addition to lifestyle changes, medication may be prescribed to lower blood pressure. There are several types of medications that can be used to treat hypertension, including:

Diuretics: These medications increase urine production, which helps to lower blood pressure.

ACE inhibitors: These medications relax the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and lowering blood pressure.

Beta-blockers: These medications slow the heart rate and reduce the force of heart contractions, which lowers blood pressure.

Calcium channel blockers: These medications relax the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and lowering blood pressure.

Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs): These medications block the action of a hormone.

The management of hypertension also involves regular monitoring of blood pressure to ensure that it remains within the target range. The target blood pressure varies depending on the patient's age, overall health, and the presence of other health conditions. In general, a blood pressure reading of less than 130/80 mmHg is considered the target for most adults with hypertension. The complications of uncontrolled hypertension can be severe and life-threatening. Hypertension can damage the blood vessels, organs, and tissues in the body, leading to various health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss. Therefore, early detection and management of hypertension are crucial in preventing these complications and improving overall health outcomes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hypertension is a common medical condition that affects a significant portion of the population worldwide. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and other health complications, and it often goes unnoticed until it reaches a critical level. Regular blood pressure checks and early intervention are essential in the management of hypertension. Lifestyle modifications and medication are the mainstay of treatment, and close monitoring of blood pressure is necessary to ensure that it remains within the target range. With proper management, the risk of complications can be significantly reduced, and the overall health outcomes can be improved.