Understanding Hypertension: A Silent Threat to Your Health
Introduction: Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite being a silent threat, hypertension significantly increases the risk of developing life-threatening complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of hypertension, providing you with essential knowledge to safeguard your health. What is Hypertension? Hypertension refers to the force exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries as it circulates through the body. It is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number). A blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg is considered normal, while readings consistently higher than 130/80 mmHg indicate hypertension. Causes of Hypertension There are two primary types of hypertension: primary (essential) hypertension and...