Hypertension: Understanding the Silent Killer

Hypertension is a condition in which the blood pressure of an individual remains elevated for a prolonged period. The symptoms of hypertension are so subtle that they most often go unnoticed unless you undergo a physical examination or your condition worsens. Hence, it is also known as the silent killer.

Untreated high blood pressure increases the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, heart failure, aneurysm, varicosities, renal failure, low libido, vision problems and dementia.

How do I know if my blood pressure is high, low, or normal?

When you measure your blood pressure, two figures matter - the systolic blood pressure (the top number) and the diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number). Systolic blood pressure is the pressure against the arteries when the heart contracts and diastolic blood pressure is the pressure against the arteries when the heart relaxes.

Refer to the chart below to understand the blood pressure values.

How common is hypertension in India?

Studies suggest that hypertension has affected more than one-third of the urban adult population and more than a fourth of the rural adults. It is estimated that hypertension has affected 100 million people and counting, and is reaching an epidemic state.

The awareness, diagnosis and treatment status seems dismal in the country. Only about a third of the population has been taking treatment and among those about 20% have it under control.

What are the emergencies related to hypertension and how to manage them?

When you measure your blood pressure at different times of the day, it will not be the same. The figures keep changing by a few numbers or more, depending on your management measures.

If you have a history of hypertension, you may experience symptoms such as severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, blurred vision, anxiety, difficulty breathing or dizziness when your blood pressure rises or lowers. It may not always be possible to distinguish between the two, but one must immediately measure their blood pressure and take the necessary steps to control it.

If your blood pressure is high, do this:

• Stop doing any activities and take adequate rest
• Drink adequate water
• Lower your salt intake
• Take conscious deep breaths and try to calm yourself down

Re-check your blood pressure after some time. If it is still elevated, consult your doctor immediately. If it has lowered, continue resting and avoid the situation that triggered it.

If your blood pressure is low, do this:

• Lay down with your legs elevated. This will improve the blood flow to your brain and help with dizziness.
• Increase your liquid intake - have some lemon water, chaas, or plain water.

If you don’t feel better in a while, consult your doctor immediately.

Hypertension is generally controlled by making lifestyle changes such as eating a low-salt diet, having an adequate liquid intake, taking medications, avoid smoking and drinking.

If you take adequate care to control your blood pressure, you can avoid the development of cardiovascular diseases and even stroke.