High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often referred to as the silent killer because it usually doesn’t cause any symptoms until it’s too late. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in three American adults have high blood pressure, but only about half of them have their condition under control.
High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. This puts strain on the heart and blood vessels, and over time, can lead to serious health problems. Here are some of the ways high blood pressure can cause damage to the body:
Heart disease and stroke: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death worldwide. When the blood vessels are constantly under pressure, they can become damaged, leading to a buildup of fatty deposits that can block the flow of blood to the heart or brain.
Kidney damage: The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood. However, when blood pressure is too high, it can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys and impair their ability to function properly. This can lead to kidney disease and eventually kidney failure.
Vision loss: High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems and even blindness. This condition, known as hypertensive retinopathy, can occur without any noticeable symptoms, making it essential to have regular eye exams, especially for those with high blood pressure.
Aneurysm: High blood pressure can cause the walls of the arteries to weaken and bulge, forming an aneurysm. If an aneurysm ruptures, it can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
Cognitive decline: Over time, high blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the brain, leading to cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia.
Pregnancy complications: High blood pressure during pregnancy, known as preeclampsia, can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby, including preterm birth and low birth weight.
The good news is that high blood pressure can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medication. Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and managing stress are all important factors in keeping blood pressure under control. For some people, medication may also be necessary to lower blood pressure.
It’s important to have regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor blood pressure and take steps to keep it within a healthy range. By managing blood pressure, individuals can reduce their risk of serious health problems and improve their overall health and well-being. Don’t let high blood pressure remain a silent danger—take action to protect your health.