High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

 

This is defined as a sustained blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg. The condition rarely has any obvious symptoms, but uncontrolled, it can lead to serious organ damage to the heart, brain and kidneys. It also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

 

What causes high blood pressure?

 

In over 90% of cases the cause is unknown and is termed primary hypertension or essential hypertension. In this case, the increase in blood pressure is often gradual and occurs over many years. In other cases it is called secondary hypertension. This means that it is usually due to an identifiable cause such as kidney abnormalities, certain medications or adrenal gland tumours.

 

High blood pressure risk factors

 

Although the cause is unknown in most cases, there are certain identifiable risk factors which can predispose to the development of hypertension. These include a family history of high blood pressure, being overweight, leading a sedentary life style, tobacco smoking, high salt intake (sodium) in the diet and having high levels of stress in your life.

 

Complications

 

One of the big worries with long standing untreated hypertension is the development of a stroke or a heart attack with their resultant disabilities.

 

Treatments

 

The most common medical treatment of hypertension is the use of a variety of drugs to reduce the blood pressure. These include beta-blockers, ace inhibitors and diuretics.

 

Self-help and complementary health remedies

 

Addressing lifestyle issues such as reducing the salt in your diet, taking regular exercise, stopping smoking and reducing weight can all be beneficial in reducing hypertension.

 

Massage has been shown to relieve stress and reduce tension both physically and emotionally, and thus reduce high blood pressure. Hypnotherapy and acupuncture can help with reducing stress as well as helping with quitting smoking, amongst other things. Homeopathy has also had success with reducing blood pressure.

 

If you would like some advice or further information please contact us here at the Earlsdon Practice by completing the form on our contact page or call us on 02476 691100.