Hypertension: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Hypertension is a condition characterized by a persistent increase in blood pressure. If left uncontrolled, it can lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and other problems of the cardiovascular system. Hereditary factors, an unhealthy diet, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress may contribute to the development of the disease. Hypertension puts a strain on the organs, which is why it often leads to various complications.
Stages of Hypertension
There are several forms of the disease. They are divided by severity:
- stage one – does not yet have a serious effect on the organs;
- stage two – has a harmful but still symptom-free effect on the body;
- stage three – is accompanied by damage to internal organ systems and the appearance of symptoms.
The disease can be primary or secondary. Primary (essential) hypertension develops without a single identifiable cause, usually under the influence of risk factors such as heredity, age, excess weight, and lifestyle. Secondary hypertension, whose signs include discomfort in the lower back, urination problems, and tissue swelling, usually develops against the background of another condition, such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or kidney disease.
The degree of the disease is determined by qualified doctors working in modern medical facilities such as CSM Clinic in Kyiv. The specialists of this center have extensive experience and the equipment needed for a comprehensive examination of patients in order to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Hypertension: Symptoms
As mentioned above, in the early stages hypertension has almost no signs. A person may learn that blood pressure is elevated only after measuring it with a special device. You can suspect this diagnosis in yourself and make a timely appointment with a cardiologist in Kyiv based on the following signs:
- long-lasting weakness;
- nosebleeds;
- irritability and heart rhythm disturbances;
- headaches and dizziness;
- a feeling of inner tension;
- confusion;
- ringing in the ears;
- muscle tremor;
- chest pain;
- rapid heartbeat.
Other symptoms depend on the causes and complications of the disease. They may appear as disturbances of brain function, as worsening vision, or as pathologies of other organs.
Hypertension: Causes
People over 65 and patients with a burdened medical history are at risk of developing this disease. The causes of hypertension also include excess body weight, insufficient physical activity, an unbalanced diet, and the use of certain medications.
Hypertension: Treatment
After an examination is carried out and a diagnosis is established, treatment of hypertension begins. Therapy usually consists of normalizing lifestyle for the purpose of constant control of blood pressure. Medications are prescribed to prevent complications. Taking them regularly may help prevent the disease from progressing from one stage to another.
Prevention of hypertension consists of normalizing the work and rest schedule, giving up bad habits, and bringing weight to normal. At the first signs of hypertension, it is better to contact CSM Clinic without delay to help prevent complications.