Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg, while hypertension is defined as consistently measuring 130/80 mmHg or higher. **Understanding the Numbers:** - **Systolic pressure** (top number): Pressure when heart beats - **Diastolic pressure** (bottom number): Pressure between beats - Stage 1 hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg - Stage 2 hypertension: 140+/90+ mmHg - Hypertensive crisis: 180+/120+ mmHg (requires immediate attention) **Causes and Risk Factors:** 1. **Primary hypertension** (90-95% of cases): - Develops gradually over years - Related to lifestyle and genetic factors - Risk increases with age 2. **Secondary hypertension** (5-10% of cases): - Caused by underlying conditions: * Kidney disease * Thyroid problems * Obstructive sleep apnea * Certain medications (NSAIDs, decongestants) * Illegal drugs (cocaine, amphetamines) **Complications of Uncontrolled Hypertension:** - Heart attack or stroke - Aneurysm - Heart failure - Kidney damage - Vision loss - Metabolic syndrome - Cognitive decline **Comprehensive Management Strategies:** 1. **Dietary Approaches (DASH Diet):** - Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains - Includes low-fat dairy, lean proteins - Limits saturated fats, cholesterol, sodium - Recommended sodium: <1,500-2,300 mg/day 2. **Lifestyle Modifications:** - Regular aerobic exercise (150 min/week) - Weight loss (5-10% reduction helps significantly) - Stress reduction techniques - Smoking cessation - Alcohol moderation (?1 drink/day women, ?2 men) 3. **Medications (when needed):** - Thiazide diuretics - ACE inhibitors - ARBs - Calcium channel blockers - Beta blockers - Often requires combination therapy 4. **Home Monitoring:** - Use validated upper-arm monitors - Take readings at consistent times - Keep a log to share with your doctor - Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking 30 mins before **Emerging Treatments:** - Renal denervation for resistant hypertension - Newer combination medications with fewer side effects - Digital therapeutics and mobile health monitoring - Personalized medicine approaches based on genetics Regular check-ups are crucial, as hypertension management often needs adjustment over time. Work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan that works for your specific situation and risk factors.