It seems like most adults deal with high blood pressure (hypertension) these days.
The World Health Organisation, as of 2023, estimated that about 1.28 billion adults between the ages of 30–79 years have this serious medical condition.
That was 15% of the world's population as of the time this report was published.
 Paramedic Checking On A Woman: Photo by Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels |
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| I believe hypertension is a major health issue young people should be concerned about, and take practical steps to protect themselves. |
What is Hypertension?
This ailment can increase the risk of serious health problems that affect the heart, brain, eyes and other organs of the body. It could render a person disabled, cause a deadly heart attack, kidney disease or ischemic stroke.
All these affect a person's quality of life and chances of longevity.
Myths about this silent killer
Many people believe that hypertension affects only senior citizens, when in reality, it can affect anyone.
Also, some claim that hypertension comes with symptoms. While this occurs in a few cases, some people with high blood pressure may not feel any symptoms.
The report from WHO, for instance, revealed that about 46% of people diagnosed were not even aware of their condition.
However, you can know your health status when you check your blood pressure with the sphygmomanometer.
Causes and treatment
Medical professionals have listed its root causes and effects. They boil down to lifestyle and gene, in peculiar cases. Some lifestyle choices that put you at the risk of having these health challenge include:
- being overweight or obese
- eating poorly balanced diet
- consuming high-salt diet
- not exercising frequently
- drinking excess alcohol, etc.
If you can, avoid the things that trigger it. Its consequences can be lethal as you do know, if left untreated.
Additional tips for healthy living
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Ensure that you,
i. eat healthy meals
ii. take low-salt diets
iii. maintain a healthy body weight
iv. exercise regularly
v. finally, quit taking tobacco (including similar drugs) and excessive alcohol.
Most importantly,
...surround yourself with people who always give you peace. Emotional stress caused by a toxic workplace, spouse or family member can make you susceptible to this silent killer.
Also, take the medications prescribed by your healthcare providers timely. Be sure to keep appointments with them as well.
Prevention, they say, comes first.