Considered one of the primary risk factors for stroke and cardiovascular disease, hypertension affects more than 45% of the adult population in the USA. It is characterized by high blood pressure on the arterial walls and therefore represents a danger for the heart and arteries. Qualified as a silent killer by the World Health Organization, she may have no particular signs, highlighting the need for regular monitoring of her blood pressure. To protect itself from its complications and the pathologies which can result from it, the WHO takes stock of the good gestures to adopt.

When we talk about hypertension, we generally refer to a blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg. This means that the pressure of the blood against the walls of the arteries is high, causing the heart to pump more to ensure the transport of blood to all parts of the body. However, its symptoms can be difficult to identify, since in most cases this condition goes unnoticed. To be able to detect it, it is therefore essential to pay attention to certain warning signs.

Hypertension: what symptoms?

According to the WHO, certain symptoms can appear in hypertensive patients. The latter, although generally discreet, even absent, can take the following forms:

• Headache
• dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Nosebleeds
• chest pain

What are the risks?

If hypertension is considered a dangerous condition, it is because it increases the risks for the heart and blood vessels, especially in organs with essential functions such as the kidneys or the brain. These same vessels are then likely to develop aneurysms and weaknesses favoring their rupture or their obstruction, without forgetting the risks of stroke and cerebral hemorrhage. In some cases, hypertension can also lead to other complications, including kidney failure, cognitive impairment, and blindness.

In addition, when it goes unnoticed and is not controlled, this condition can lead to a heart attack and thickening of the heart which can ultimately lead to heart failure. Hypertension is said to be the number one preventable cause of stroke and cardiovascular disease. And its health consequences are not immune to significant complications in the presence of additional risk factors, including:

• Continuous stress
• A poor diet
• A lack of sports activity
• Diabetes mellitus
• Excessive use of alcohol
• Hypercholesterolemia
• Obesity

To be able to prevent hypertension or identify it in time, regular blood pressure checks are highly recommended. In the event of proven hypertension, a healthcare professional may prescribe appropriate treatments. But there are also important measures to establish daily to limit its risks and its impact. Indeed, some lifestyle changes can be beneficial, namely.

Smoking cessation: This involves stopping smoking but also exposure to products that contain it.

Healthy eating: This should be followed as soon as possible to avoid the risk of hypertension and promote a healthy lifestyle and start eating a balanced meal. WHO recommends favoring the consumption of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day, in accordance with the recommendations of the National Nutrition and Health Program (NNHP). Fat and saturated fat should also be reduced.

Reduce your salt intake: Also according to the World Health Organization, it is advisable to limit your salt intake to less than one teaspoon of salt per day, or less than 5g.

Stopping or moderate alcohol consumption: Failing to stop alcohol consumption, it is strongly recommended to limit the excesses to avoid any harmful consequences on your health.

Practice regular physical activity: This recommendation should be followed in conjunction with a healthy diet to be able to maintain a normal weight. When overweight, the WHO estimates that losing 5 pounds “can reduce systolic blood pressure by 2 to 10 points.” It is also advisable to encourage the youngest to practice regular physical exercise for at least 30 minutes each day.

Managing stress better: To be able to reduce the risk of hypertension or any consequence arising from this disease, better stress management can be beneficial. For this purpose, meditation, positive social interactions, and physical activity are healthy and appropriate measures to help you. but the most important thing is that you have to find a way of dealing with stress and anxiety at work

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