In this week’s installation we continue with our second of last post on the ‘Chronic illnesses and their symptoms’ series. We are unpacking on high blood pressure and its symptoms.
High blood pressure is a common condition that affects the body’s arteries. It’s also called hypertension. If you have high blood pressure, the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high. The heart has to work harder to pump blood.
Also referred to as the silent killer, High blood pressure or hypertension doesn’t have any symptoms and one may not know they have it. In fact, nearly one-third of people who have high blood pressure don’t know it. High blood pressure doesn’t have any symptoms unless it’s very severe.
For one to know if their blood pressure is high or not, they have to constantly check. There are things that increase the risk of having high blood pressure and these include:
• older age
• genetics
• being overweight or obese
• not being physically active
• high-salt diet
• drinking too much alcohol
Lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet, quitting tobacco and being more active can help lower blood pressure. Some people may still need to take medicines.
Untreated, high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious health problems. It’s important to have your blood pressure checked at least every two years starting at age 18. Some people need more-frequent checks.
People with very high blood pressure (usually 180/120 or higher) can experience symptoms including:
• severe headaches
• chest pain
• dizziness
• difficulty breathing
• nausea
• vomiting
• blurred vision or other vision changes
• anxiety
• confusion
• buzzing in the ears
• nosebleeds
• abnormal heart rhythm
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and a high blood pressure, seek care immediately.
Healthy lifestyle habits —such as not smoking, exercising and eating well — can help prevent and treat high blood pressure. Some people need medicine to treat high blood pressure. The best way to know if your blood pressure is high is through regular checkups. You can also monitor blood pressure at home. You would be happy to know that we offer free BP check up services at our Bulawayo and Harare offices. If you’re in Bulawayo you can visit us at Treger House office 20a/b second floor Jason Moyo between 11th and 12th avenue. Our Harare offices are found at Suite 9, Gordon Building, Corer 1st street and George Silundika. You can also contact us on +263780999957/+263716152156.
Sources:
Sachdev, P. February 26, 2023. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/hypertension-symptoms-high-blood-pressure
Thomas, L. N.D. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373410
World Health Organization. March, 2023. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension