Hypertension

hypertension

Hypertension is the medical name for persistently high blood pressure, which means the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries stays higher than normal. Blood pressure is written as two numbers — the higher one is the pressure when the heart beats, and the lower one is the pressure when the heart rests. Many people with hypertension have no noticeable symptoms, so it often goes undetected unless measured. Causes include a mix of genetics, age, excess weight, lack of physical activity, too much salt in the diet, heavy alcohol use, and some medical conditions or medicines. Because it frequently has no symptoms, regular checkups and home measurements are important for finding it early. If left untreated, hypertension stresses the heart and blood vessels and raises the chance of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision problems. Treatment often starts with lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular exercise, weight loss if needed, and cutting back on alcohol and sodium. For many people, doctors also prescribe medicines to help bring blood pressure down to a safer level. Managing hypertension is a long-term effort because consistent control reduces the risk of serious complications. Working with a healthcare provider to monitor readings and adjust treatment helps keep blood pressure in a healthier range.