The Dangers of Uncontrolled Hypertension

Dr.Amit Pendharkar, 4 mins read

Uncontrolled hypertension can give birth to new complications. It has a direct link with your heart and mental health. Read how to keep hypertension under control and prevent its associated risks. 

Nowadays, hypertension or high blood pressure has become a common problem due to unhealthy lifestyle choices. It occurs when the pressure in arteries is higher than normal. 

A blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg or lower is considered normal. When this reading reaches 130/80 mmHg or higher, it is called hypertension.

This condition can not be taken lightly. It is a silent killer as it doesn't show noticeable symptoms initially. But it gradually puts you at a higher risk of several diseases. Some of them are as follows:

• Heart attack and stroke
  

Constant elevated pressure in arteries could damage its wall. This ushers plaque buildup in the arteries. This plaque hardens with time and starts narrowing the arteries. Plaque buildup can also cause blood clots. As a result, the blood flow to the heart or brain gets affected, causing heart attack or stroke.

• Heart failure

As hypertension causes arteries to become narrowed or hardened, the heart has to put extra effort into doing its job. If this situation continues, the heart could become larger and fail to supply blood around the body.

• Chest pain

When the heart doesn’t get the blood it needs, chest pain arises, which is medically known as angina. People with high blood pressure often experience pressure, pain or a feeling of fullness in the chest after exercise.  

• Vision problems

Our eyes are full of small blood vessels. High blood pressure can affect these blood vessels too. If the problem is left untreated for a long period, it could cause permanent vision loss or impairment.

• Hypertensive crisis

This is a very serious medical emergency. This causes the blood pressure to rapidly reach much higher, i.e. above 180/120 mmHg. It can give rise to life-threatening complications.  In such cases, you may need to visit a nearby hospital immediately. 

• Kidney damage

The kidney plays many roles in our body, apart from filtering our blood and supplying excess water. Elevated blood pressure damages the arteries around the kidney. This affects kidney functioning and at worse it can even lead to kidney failure.

• Sexual dysfunction

Consistent high blood pressure is often associated with erectile dysfunction in men and a low desire for sex in women. 

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD)

High blood pressure causes arteries in the stomach, arms, legs or head to become narrow. This causes fatigue, pain and cramping. This condition is labelled as PAD. Having this condition also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Ways to Keep Your Blood Pressure in Healthy Range

• Limit your salt intake
• Refrain from smoking
• Manage regular stress
• Regularly consult your doctor
• Manage a healthy body weight
• Cut down on alcohol consumption
• Get a good and healthy night's sleep
• Include healthy vegetables and fruits in your meal plan
• Consider moderate exercise for at least 150 minutes a week

Also, Read: Is Heart Disease More Prevalent in Young People