Apollo Medical Lab Mohali

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) is a condition in which the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high.

Blood Pressure Categories (Adults)

* Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
* Elevated: 120–129 and less than 80 mmHg
* Stage 1 Hypertension: 130–139 or 80–89 mmHg
* Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mmHg or higher
* Hypertensive crisis: Higher than 180/120 mmHg (requires immediate medical attention)

Common Risk Factors

* Family history
* Older age
* Overweight or obesity
* High-salt diet
* Physical inactivity
* Smoking
* Excessive alcohol consumption
* Stress
* Conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease

Possible Symptoms

Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because many people have no symptoms. Severe hypertension may sometimes cause:

* Headaches
* Dizziness
* Blurred vision
* Shortness of breath
* Chest pain

Complications

Untreated hypertension can increase the risk of:

* Heart attack
* Stroke
* Heart failure
* Kidney disease
* Vision loss

Management

* Regular blood pressure monitoring
* Reducing salt intake
* Maintaining a healthy weight
* Regular exercise
* Limiting alcohol
* Quitting smoking
* Taking prescribed medications when needed

If you’d like, I can also explain:

* The causes and pathophysiology of hypertension
* Types (primary vs. secondary hypertension)
* Diagnosis and treatment guidelines
* Nursing management
* Lifestyle modifications and diet (DASH diet).