In normal circumstances, a regular blood pressure is required to push blood through the body so that oxygen and nutrients can reach the tissues. When the pressure in the arteries is constantly high, it results in a condition called hypertension. Hypertension does not have obvious symptoms, so many people are not aware that they have the condition. Therefore, regular check ups and early detection are very important.
According to the Population Health Survey 2014/15 conducted by the Department of Health, the total prevalence of hypertension combining self-reported cases or detected during health examination was 27.7% among persons aged 15-84, with 47.5% of them being undiagnosed before the survey.
Healthcare professionals measure blood pressure by using an inflatable cuff connected to an automated device. There are two readings:
Blood pressure readings are recorded as the systolic pressure over the diastolic pressure eg. 120/80.
The range of blood pressure readings are categorized to help healthcare workers assess and define associated risks:
Blood pressure is not static. It is relatively lower when a person is at rest and higher when a person is under stress or doing exercise. Due to these variable factors, several readings over a period of time will be required before a diagnosis can be made. Usually older people have higher blood pressure than younger people. People with prehypertension are at an increased risk of developing high blood pressure and cardiovascular complications.
90% of all hypertensive cases are of unknown causes and are called “Primary hypertension”. They may be related to stress, obesity, unbalanced dietary intake with excessive salt, heavy dinking, and smoking. All of these risk factors can be reversed. A family history of high blood pressure is also a risk factor.
The remaining 10% are called "Secondary hypertension" and can be due to specific conditions such as endocrine disorders, kidney inflammation, kidney cancer and thyroid disorders. Blood pressure will return normal if the underlying diseases are being treated.
Lifestyle changes – Treatment of hypertension usually begins with lifestyle changes:
Medicine – Using medicine to lower blood pressure may be recommended if the blood pressure is consistently at or above 140/90. Modern treatment of hypertension has few or no side effects and is often taken once daily. Treatment with medicine aims to prevent the onset of health risks and the treatment itself will not cure the hypertension. Lifestyle changes are always important in managing high blood pressure.
To receive more information on high blood pressure management and lifestyle changes, please consult your doctor or a dietitian.
The information provided in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. Matilda International Hospital and Matilda Medical Centre shall not be held responsible for any decisions made based on this information.