Keeping it in check

Hypertension is a medical condition considered many doctors as the silent killer as it does not show any clear symptoms. But when it reaches severe condition, hypertension show some symptoms of headaches, sleepiness, palpitation, blurred vision, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, ringing sensation in the ears, breathing difficulty, irregular heartbeat which may lead to even coma.

"High BP leads many complications like narrowing of arteries, a blood clot in the brain (stroke), heart attack, kidney failure, heart failure, eye damage etc," said Dr T Sashikanth, Senior Cardiologist at Yashoda Hospital, Secunderabad.

During hypertension the arterial blood pressure rises to the high level from the normal level (120/80 mmHg). It is divided into two types (primary and secondary hypertension) on the basis of its causing factors. The primary hypertension is more common type however its causes are unknown.

Whereas, causes of secondary hypertension are kidney damage, adrenal gland over-activity, sleep apnea syndrome, tumors, recreational drugs, thyroid gland dysfunctioning, aortic coarctation, pregnancy-related conditions, over or wrong medications, alcoholic drinks and bad food.

"Primary Hypertension can be easily prevented by fallowing healthy lifestyle. However secondary hypertension is severe condition which can be managed and cured if treated well." assured Dr Sashikanth.

According to medical experts and nutritionists in managing of Hypertension changing lifestyle is as crucial as medication. They unanimously advise patients to adopt healthy living habits like avoiding smoking and alcohol, low sodium intake of 1.5gm to 2.5gm a day, low-fat and high-fiber diet, fruits and green vegetables, proper physical exercise, aerobics, healthy weight, regular pulse and BP check, reduce stress, low bad cholesterol level.