High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of blood against the walls of arteries is consistently too high. It is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms, and people may not realize they have it until it causes a serious health problem. However, some people may experience the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Vision problems
- Dizziness
- Nausea
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor immediately, as they may be a sign of a hypertensive crisis.
To control high blood pressure, there are several lifestyle changes that can help, including:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in sodium, saturated and trans fats, and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Quitting smoking
- Managing stress
In addition to lifestyle changes, medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors may be prescribed to help lower blood pressure. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to manage high blood pressure, as uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.