High blood pressure and how to prevent complications

It affects more than 30% of the adult population in the country, which means that one in three people has this disease. It is important to know the causes, symptoms, and treatment of high blood pressure in order to control it and prevent complications.

High blood pressure is a condition in which the blood pressure is higher than normal. Blood pressure is measured in two numbers, the top or systolic number and the bottom or diastolic number. Normal values are around 120/80 mmHg. When the blood pressure is above 130/80 mmHg, it could be considered high blood pressure.

The causes of high blood pressure can vary. Some people may have a genetic predisposition to it, while others may develop it due to their lifestyle, such as an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, stress, and tobacco and alcohol consumption. There are also other factors that can contribute, such as age, diabetes, and kidney disease.

Regarding the symptoms of high blood pressure, they can be mild or even non-existent, so it is important to have regular blood pressure check-ups. Some people may experience headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and blurry vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor immediately for a complete examination and determine whether or not you have high blood pressure. Here are some of the most recognized doctors in the treatment of this medical condition in the United States:

Dr. Kenneth Jamerson: He is one of the leading experts on high blood pressure in the United States and has published numerous studies and research on the subject. Dr. Jamerson is also a professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan.

Dr. Jan Basile: A recognized specialist in hypertension and has served as President of the American Society of Hypertension. He is a Professor of Medicine at the University of South Carolina and has published numerous studies on the topic.

Dr. Michael Weber: A prominent cardiologist specializing in hypertension, he has served as President of the American Society of Hypertension. He is a Professor of Medicine at the State University of New York and has published numerous articles and studies on the topic.

It is worth noting that there are many other hypertension specialists in the United States who are also highly recognized in the field of medicine. In any case, if you have high blood pressure, it is best to seek the help of a hypertension specialist who can provide you with the best possible treatment and help prevent complications.

For the diagnosis of hypertension, a physical examination and blood pressure measurement are performed. Your doctor will measure your blood pressure in both arms to determine if there is a significant difference. Additional tests, such as blood and urine tests, may also be performed to determine if there are other health problems contributing to hypertension.

It should be noted that there are several treatment options available for hypertension. However, the most common treatment includes lifestyle changes such as following a healthy diet, regularly exercising, avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption, and reducing stress. Additionally, your doctor may prescribe medications to help lower blood pressure. Medications for hypertension may include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, among others.

It is important to remember that every person is different, so a medication that works for one person may not work for another, and there is a high likelihood that several attempts will be needed to find the right medication for you. Additionally, it is important to talk to your doctor about any side effects you may experience and any changes in your symptoms. Remember that it is crucial to follow medical instructions and take medication as prescribed.

However, if you do not yet have high blood pressure, there are several things you can do to prevent it, such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption. It is also important to eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. And for those who already have high blood pressure, it is important to take steps to prevent long-term complications. This may include taking your medication as prescribed, monitoring your blood pressure regularly, and making lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly and following a healthy diet.

Lastly, here are some tips that can help manage high blood pressure:

Take medication as prescribed and do not stop it without talking to your doctor.

Monitor blood pressure regularly at home and keep a record of your readings.

Talk to your doctor about any changes in symptoms or medication side effects.

Follow a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Avoid processed and high-sodium foods.

Reduce alcohol and tobacco consumption.

Exercise regularly and stay active.

Learn to manage stress and practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga.

Finally, it is important to mention that there is also high blood pressure during pregnancy, which is a serious condition that can endanger both the mother's and the fetus's lives. Pregnancy-induced hypertension can be classified into two categories: gestational hypertension, which refers to high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of gestation in women who previously did not have high blood pressure, and preeclampsia, which is a medical complication of pregnancy that occurs after 20 weeks of gestation. It is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and other symptoms such as headaches, visual changes, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and decreased urine production. Preeclampsia can affect several organs, including the liver, kidneys, brain, and placenta, and can be potentially fatal for both the mother and the fetus.

In general, gestational hypertension and preeclampsia are treated by an obstetrician-gynecologist and, in more severe cases, by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including maternal-fetal medicine specialists and nephrologists. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition but may include blood pressure monitoring, medication to control high blood pressure, bed rest, diet, and in severe cases, induction of labor or cesarean section.

Finally, high blood pressure is a common condition that affects millions of people in the United States and worldwide. Although in many cases it does not present obvious symptoms, it is important to regularly undergo blood pressure checks and take measures to prevent and control high blood pressure. If you suspect you have this condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. With lifestyle changes and the use of medication, many people with high blood pressure can lead a healthy and active life.

References:

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022b, September 15). High blood pressure (hypertension). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373410 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, May 18). High blood pressure symptoms and causes . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/about.htm 

World Health Organization. (n.d.). Hypertension. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension 

Dr. Kenneth Jamerson: https://www.uofmhealth.org/profile/606/kenneth-alan-jamerson-md

Dr. Jan Basile: https://education.musc.edu/MUSCApps/FacultyDirectory/Basile-Jan

Dr. Michael Weber: https://health.usnews.com/doctors/michael-weber-673322