Hypertension and its Impact on Health

Today, May 17th, is World Hypertension Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about hypertension and its impact on health. Hypertension, often referred to as high blood pressure, affects as many as 6 million Canadian adults, representing 19% of the adult population. Alarmingly, of those 19%, approximately 17% are unaware of their condition, which underscores the importance of recognizing and managing this health issue. Hypertension is frequently dubbed the “silent killer” because it often presents no symptoms until significant damage has occurred, making it crucial to stay vigilant and informed about this condition.

So what is hypertension, exactly? Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood pumped from the heart against the walls of blood vessels. This force is essential for blood to circulate and deliver vital nutrients and oxygen to organs and tissues throughout the body. High blood pressure occurs when this force is consistently too high, putting undue stress on blood vessels and potentially leading to a variety of health problems. Essentially, anyone can develop high blood pressure, but its prevalence increases with age, making it a common concern as people grow older.

The causes of high blood pressure can be categorized into those that can be managed and those that are beyond one’s control. Lifestyle factors play a significant role in the development of hypertension and include habits such as living a sedentary lifestyle with a lack of regular physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress. Additionally, certain medical conditions like diabetes and kidney disease can contribute to high blood pressure. Conversely, factors that are beyond one’s control include age and genetics. Understanding these causes is essential for taking proactive steps to manage and prevent hypertension.

The first step in understanding high blood pressure is learning what your blood pressure numbers mean. Blood pressure is measured with two numbers: systolic and diastolic. Systolic pressure, the higher number, occurs when the heart contracts and pumps blood, while diastolic pressure, the lower number, occurs when the heart relaxes and fills with blood. These measurements are expressed in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), a standardized unit of pressure. For example, a reading of 120/80 mmHg is considered normal. The higher either number is – and the longer it remains elevated – the greater the potential for damage to blood vessels, which can lead to serious health complications.

Uncontrolled high blood pressure poses significant health risks. It increases the likelihood of experiencing a stroke or heart attack, which are both potentially fatal events. High blood pressure can also lead to heart failure, where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, and increases the risk of developing eye problems that can result in vision loss. Additionally, hypertension is a risk factor for dementia, as it can contribute to the deterioration of cognitive function over time. Kidney disease is another concern, as high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste from the blood. For men, another possible complication of hypertension is erectile dysfunction, which can significantly impact quality of life.

If you have or suspect you might have high blood pressure, it is imperative to speak with your physician. Regular monitoring of your blood pressure is a key aspect of managing the condition. This can be done at home using a blood pressure monitor or by having your healthcare provider check it for you at your doctor’s office or pharmacy. Regular monitoring helps track your blood pressure trends and allows for timely intervention if your numbers start to rise.

World Hypertension Day serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness, prevention, and management of high blood pressure. By understanding the causes, monitoring your blood pressure, and making lifestyle changes where possible, you can take control of your health and reduce the risk of complications associated with hypertension. Staying informed and proactive is the best defense against this silent but deadly condition.