Ever since the mythical Pandora opened the box, the world is riddled with diseases and some of the "fashionable" diseases like hypertension(high blood pressure), hypercholesterolemia, diabetes mellitus have touched epidemic proportions. Here is a simple FAQ on hypertension for the benefit of the readers.
What is the normal blood pressure?
140/90 is considered to be the upper limit of normal resting BP at 35 yrs. As age advances BP may also rise in normal people.
Hypertension (high BP) is when the reading is consistently over 140 mm systolic and 90mm diastolic.
Hypotension (low BP) is when the reading is consistently below 90 mm systolic and 50-60mm diastolic.
What are the causes of HBP (high blood pressure)?
To name a few: chronic kidney disease, aortic disease, thyroid and other endocrine disorders, pregnancy, certain drugs, essential or idiopathic-largest group.
What are the factors influencing the development of HBP?
Genetic and familial, socioeconomic, diet habits, obesity, high salt intake, alcohol intake, smoking, caffeine, hormonal influences etc.
Exercise, anxiety, discomfort and unfamiliar situations can lead to a temporary rise.
When should the BP be taken?
Ideally on 3 separate occasions when the patient is resting and relaxed.
What are the symptoms of HBP?
Most patients do not have any complaints and some may feel vague headache or increased urination. It is common to come across patients who have a very high BP and who are unaware of its existence until a routine BP measurement is done. Hence HBP is called a silent killer .
Can HBP be controlled and what are the methods of controlling?
HBP can be controlled by diet changes, exercises, stop smoking, controlling cholesterol, meditation and relaxation techniques. If it cannot be controlled by these methods then your physician is the right person to decide whether medication is necessary or not!
What are the complications of uncontrolled HBP?
The complications are protean and many of them may be fatal! There may be cardiac, kidney, eye problems or neurological problems like stroke etc.
What are the complications of low BP?
Low BP may be common in some people if certain conditions like myocardial disease or infarction and diabetic neuropathy etc. is ruled out.
What should I do if I have high or low BP?
NEVER SELF MEDICATE – Your physician is the right person to decide what is good for you. Remember prevention is better than cure…so even if you do not have any BP related problems ask your physician as to what is to be done!!!
WISHING EVERYONE GOOD HEALTH AND SAFE LIVING!!
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