HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

It is also known as Hypertension, Arterial hypertension. It is a chronic condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is elevated. Blood pressure is expressed by two stages. The higher value is systolic and the lower value is diastolic. 

The systolic stage occurs when the left ventricle is most contracted; diastolic stage arises when left ventricle is most relaxed getting ready for the next contraction.

Normal blood pressure for systolic is between 100 to 140. 

Diastolic normal value is between 60 to 90mm of mercury. High blood pressure does not show any symptom. But sustained high blood pressure occurs over a long period it becomes serious and warrant immediate attention.

 Illustration depicting the effects of high blood pressure

 

Sustained high blood pressure will lead to hypertensive heart disease, coronary heart disease, stroke, peripheral heart disease. Blood pressure with no obvious cause is termed as primary high blood pressure and is the majority cases. The secondary hypertension is due to identifiable causes.

In most people with the essential hypertension the increased resistance to blood flow causes high blood pressure. To prevent hypertension the following advices are given:

Maintain normal body mass. Reduction in sodium intake. Regular aerobic physical exercise. Limit alcohol consumption. Consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Hypertension is the most preventable risk factor for premature death worldwide. Historically the treatment advocated for Hard pulse disease was blood letting or application of leaches.