Hypertension, defined as a blood pressure over 140/90 mmHg, is both common and controllable It is a leading cause of heart disease, stroke and kidney failure. Because it has no symptoms, it often goes unrecognized; the only way to tell if you have hypertension is by getting your blood pressure measured.

The longer you have hypertension, the greater the health risks. Hypertension is more common and more dangerous in older people than in younger people, and also in those who are over-weight or have diabetes or high cholesterol. Hypertension is also more dangerous in smokers. You and your doctor will consider all these factors when deciding on a treatment plan.

Maintaining your blood pressure at a healthy level will reduce your risk of premature death due to heart attack, stroke or kidney failure. The goals of treatment are:

To lower your blood pressure to the level set by your physician (usually 140/90 mmHg or less). -

To keep your blood pressure at the target level over the long term. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to see how well your treatment is working.

 

Hypertension may he treated with the following lifestyle measures;

Eat a diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and little cholesterol and saturated fat.

Limit your salt intake.

Limit your alcohol intake to no more than 2 beers, 2 glasses of wine or 2 ounces of liquor daily.

Maintain a healthy weight.

Exercise. Getting 50 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise (such as brisk walking) at least 3 to 4 times a week maximizes blood pressure lowering, but even a small amount of light activity (such as gardening) can help.

Reduce stress.

If you smoke, quit.

 

If your blood pressure is very high or if you have other risk factors like diabetes, your doctor may

prescribe medication as well as lifestyle changes. There are many different kinds of medication to treat hypertension; you may need to try more than one, but you should find one that is suitable for you.

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