The Dangers of Living with High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a widespread health concern affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Often called the "silent killer," this condition rarely presents noticeable symptoms but can lead to severe, life-threatening complications if left unchecked. 

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years have hypertension globally, with two-thirds living in low and middle-income countries.

Living with high blood pressure puts extra strain on your blood vessels, heart, and other organs, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and other serious health issues. Yet, despite its prevalence and potential dangers, many people remain unaware of their condition or fail to manage it effectively. 

Fortunately, by understanding the risks of untreated high blood pressure and taking proactive steps to control it, a person can reclaim their long-term health and well-being.

What is Hypertension? 

Hypertension is a chronic medical condition characterized by persistently elevated pressure within the blood vessels. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure (the force when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (the force when the heart is at rest between beats). If a person receives a blood pressure reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher, for example, they are generally considered hypertensive.

While the exact causes of hypertension can vary, it often results from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Primary or essential hypertension, which accounts for 90-95% of cases, develops gradually over time with no identifiable cause. Other risk factors include age, family history, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, high salt intake, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress.

Secondary hypertension, accounting for the remaining cases, is caused by underlying medical conditions such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, anatomic abnormalities or certain medications. Regardless of the cause, persistent hypertension can lead to serious health complications if not properly managed.

How Do I Know If I Have High Blood Pressure?

Unfortunately, high blood pressure symptoms often go unnoticed, which is why hypertension is called the "silent killer." However, there are some ways a person might suspect they have high blood pressure:

• Regular blood pressure checks: The most reliable way to know is through regular measurements, either at a healthcare provider's office or using a home blood pressure monitor.
• Severe headaches: While not common, some people with very high blood pressure may experience severe headaches.
• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially with mild exertion, can sometimes be a sign.
• Nosebleeds: Frequent nosebleeds might be a symptom, particularly if they occur without obvious cause.
• Visual changes: Blurred vision or seeing spots may occur in some cases.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: These symptoms can sometimes be associated with high blood pressure.
• Chest pain: In severe cases, this might indicate hypertension affecting the heart.
• Irregular heartbeat: Palpitations or a feeling of pounding in the chest might indicate high blood pressure.
• Fatigue or confusion: These can be symptoms, especially in older adults.

While these are the most common ways a person could discern if they have high blood pressure or not, it's important to note that these signs are not definitive proof of hypertension and can also be caused by other conditions. 

To further complicate matters, many people with high blood pressure have no symptoms at all. Therefore, regular blood pressure measurements with a medical professional is the only reliable way to diagnose hypertension. 

What is Considered High Blood Pressure? Understanding the Blood Pressure Ranges

So, what's dangerous high blood pressure, and what is normal blood pressure? Normal blood pressure is anything that falls within the normal range, while anything that falls into the Stage 1, Stage 2, or Crisis categories of blood pressure ranges is considered dangerous.

Here's how the American Heart Association categorizes blood pressure ranges:

• Systolic: Less than 120 mmHg 
• Diastolic: Less than 80 mmHg

• Systolic: 120-129 mmHg 
• Diastolic: Less than 80 mmHg

• Systolic: 130-139 mmHg 
• Diastolic: 80-89 mmHg

• Systolic: 140 mmHg or higher 
• Diastolic: 90 mmHg or higher

• Systolic: 180mmHg or higher
• Diastolic: 120mmHG or higher

How Does Uncontrolled Hypertension Affect the Body? 

The risks of untreated high blood pressure can have wide-ranging and serious effects on the body over time. 

Here are some of the dangers of high blood pressure on various organ systems and overall health:

• Increased risk of heart attack and heart failure
• Thickening and hardening of arteries (atherosclerosis)
• Enlarged heart due to extra workload
• Higher risk of stroke
• Potential cognitive decline and dementia
• Increased risk of vascular dementia
• Damage to blood vessels in the kidneys
• Increased risk of kidney disease and failure
• Potential need for dialysis or kidney transplant
• Damage to blood vessels in the retina (hypertensive retinopathy)
• Vision problems or blindness

How to Lower Your Blood Pressure

If you or someone you know suspects they may have high blood pressure, there is good news. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, a person can naturally lower their blood pressure.

Here's what you can do:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Adopt a healthy diet   
• Reduce sodium intake
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Quit smoking
• Manage stress
• Get enough sleep
• Monitor your blood pressure at home
• Reduce caffeine intake

These natural methods should be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, any prescribed medications, and it's still important to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant lifestyle changes, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Manage High Blood Pressure Risks Effectively with Our Central Florida Cardiologists

As one of the most experienced providers of cardiovascular care in Orlando, our team of distinguished cardiovascular specialists is here to help with any health concerns you may have.

If you or someone you know suspects they're dealing with some of the dangers of high blood pressure, request an appointment with The Cardiovascular Center of Florida today. We'll be here to support you every step of the way.