Hypertension – What is it and How is it Affecting India?

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Did you know that hypertension can be attributed to 57% of stroke deaths and 24% of coronary heart disease deaths in India?

Hypertension, also known as High Blood Pressure, is a biological condition wherein blood exerts excessive force against the arteries, resulting in elevated blood pressure. According to medical guidelines, blood pressure is considered to be normal if it is 120/80 mm of mercury (mmHg). In a hypertensive condition, the blood pressure exceeds 130/80 mmHg.

Causes of Hypertension

There are no particular causes of hypertension. However, numerous risk factors do contribute to elevated blood pressure.

  • Hypertension has become very common among people over the age of 60, usually due to the stiffening of the arteries.
  • Individuals who are overweight or obese have a higher chance of suffering from high BP even at a younger age.
  • Smoking and over-consumption of alcohol have also proved to be major contributors to hypertension.
  • Individuals who live a sedentary lifestyle are also more likely to suffer from hypertension.
  • A family history of hypertension, combined with unhealthy lifestyle choices increase an individual’s chances of suffering from hypertension.
The Silent Killer

Hypertension is often referred to as the silent killer – this is because there are no definitive symptoms to diagnose it. However, in most cases, a measurement of blood pressure is taken by doctors on standard visits. In less obvious cases, it is mostly diagnosed only after a person suffers a heart attack or stroke. Nevertheless, there are signs that one has to be aware of, which could be possible warnings – headache, excessive sweating, repeated bouts of anxiety, and sleeplessness.

If left unchecked, hypertension has to ability to magnify the condition of a possible heart failure, kidney failure, retinopathies or stroke.

Today, hypertension is one of the most common health problems in India. Over the past three decades, there has been a drastic increase in the number of people suffering from hypertension. Around 23.10% of men and 22.60% of women in India are victims of this condition. It contributes to around 10.8% of all deaths in India.

What You Can Do

Though hypertension has become quite common, there are numerous ways to prevent or control it. Some effective measures that one can adopt for a healthier lifestyle are as follows:

  • Exercising regularly.
  • Maintaining a healthy diet – with lots of fruits and vegetables.
  • Quitting tobacco and alcohol.
  • Cutting down on food items that have high levels of sugar and salt.

At Venkataeswara Hospitals, we have the best cardiologists in India consulting with our patients. Here, you will receive diligent care and appropriate treatment for hypertension or its related conditions. Whether you are young or old, this World Hypertension Day, find out where you stand and take the road to a healthier lifestyle – book an appointment now for a comprehensive health check-up.