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High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition where the long-term force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease. High blood pressure usually develops over many years and can lead to serious health complications if not treated.

Importance of Maintaining a Normal Blood Pressure Level:

Maintaining a normal blood pressure level is essential to avoid many health problems such as heart disease, kidney failure, and stroke.

Accordingly, on World Hypertension Day, it is important to raise awareness about the causes, symptoms, and methods of prevention and treatment of high blood pressure, as it plays a major role in maintaining public health.

Causes of High Blood Pressure:

There are several factors that can lead to high blood pressure, which can be divided into a number of categories:

1. Genetic Factors: If a family member has high blood pressure, it increases your chances of developing it as well.

2. Lifestyle Factors: Poor lifestyle choices can significantly increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. These include:

• •  Eating unhealthy foods
• •  Lack of physical activity
• •  Obesity
• •  Smoking
• •  Excessive alcohol consumption

3. Psychological Factors: Mental stress and anxiety may lead to elevated blood pressure.

4. Medical Conditions: Some health conditions such as kidney diseases, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and certain heart problems can raise the risk of hypertension.

5. Medications: Some medications, especially corticosteroids, birth control pills, and some decongestants may contribute to raising blood pressure.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure:

In many cases, high blood pressure does not cause noticeable symptoms, which is why it is sometimes called “the silent killer” When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• •  Headaches
• •  Dizziness
• •  Blurred vision
• •  Chest pain
• •  Difficulty breathing
• •  Irregular heartbeat

Blood Pressure Classification Table:

Treatment of High Blood Pressure:

The goal of treating high blood pressure is to reach and maintain normal levels, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring a healthy life. Treatment involves:

1. Lifestyle Changes:

• •  Reducing salt intake and avoiding processed foods
• •  Regular physical activity
• •  Eating a healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy)
• •  Maintaining a healthy weight
• •  Avoiding smoking and reducing alcohol consumption
• •  Managing stress

2. Medications:
If lifestyle changes are not enough, medication may be prescribed. Medication depends on the individual case and the doctor’s evaluation.

Preventing High Blood Pressure:
To maintain a normal blood pressure level and avoid high blood pressure, you need to make some changes to your daily lifestyle. Preventive measures include:

• •  Maintaining a healthy weight
• •  Quitting smoking
• •  Following a balanced diet
• •  Exercising regularly
• •  Sleeping well at night
• •  Managing stress
• •  Limiting alcohol consumption

If you have a family history of high blood pressure, it is very important to make these lifestyle changes to reduce the risk.