High BP: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Precautions

High blood pressure, also known as the silent killer, is estimated to cause heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and dementia. The American Heart Association has released new guidelines, emphasizing the need for timely early treatment and lifestyle modifications. Reducing salt intake, eating fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, weight control, and stress management are recommended as primary treatments.

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Why Early Treatment Is Important

• High BP silently damages organs.
• It weakens arteries and affects the heart and brain.
• It increases the risk of dementia and memory loss.
• Early treatment ensures longevity and quality of life.
• Early treatment is better. Detecting heart disease at an early stage can prevent serious future risks.
• This becomes even more important if there is a family history of diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes.

Specific guidelines:

Early treatment is essential: Do not ignore even mildly elevated blood pressure.

Lifestyle modifications: Reduce salt intake, eat a healthy diet, exercise, and reduce stress.

For women: Monitor your blood pressure during pregnancy and after delivery.

Medication if needed: Do not ignore medication if needed.

Treatment should be started at stage 1, not stage 2.

Understand these stages of blood pressure:

Normal blood pressure: 120/80 mm Hg: This is ideal. Maintain this level.

High blood pressure: 120-129: This is a warning sign. Indicates lifestyle changes.

High blood pressure (stage 1): 130-139: At this level, your doctor may recommend medication.

High blood pressure (stage 2): More than 140/90 mm Hg: Serious. In addition to medication, lifestyle changes should also be made.