High blood pressure is considered one of the silent diseases that can occur for years without showing clear symptoms, which is where the true danger of the disease lies. This is an issue faced by 80 percent of patients. According to public health doctor Dr. Hussein Al-Hawari, it is important to know the causes of high blood pressure to avoid them as much as possible, given the implications of this problem on health.
#### When is Blood Pressure Considered High?
Blood pressure is considered high when it exceeds 9/14 at least twice over several days, and it should not be overlooked. This is the best way to detect high blood pressure, as only 20 percent of cases show symptoms. It is recommended to start measuring blood pressure from the age of 30 for those at risk of high blood pressure, such as in cases of obesity or hereditary factors.
#### What Are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure affects tens of millions worldwide and can cause symptoms such as:
- Severe headache, particularly at the back of the head
- Nosebleeds
- Dizziness
- Redness of the face and ears
- Vomiting
- Swelling in the feet
#### What Causes High Blood Pressure?
In 90 percent of cases, there are no known causes for high blood pressure. However, there are contributing factors:
- Genetic factors, which are the most significant
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels
- Alcohol consumption
- Excessive salt intake
- Stress
- Arteriosclerosis diseases
- Aging
- Sleep apnea
- Lack of physical activity
In 10 percent of cases, high blood pressure results from kidney diseases, thyroid gland diseases, congenital heart diseases, the use of contraceptive pills, pregnancy, or painkillers.
#### What Treatments Can Be Used to Control Blood Pressure Levels?
There are various types of blood pressure medications. Additionally, lifestyle changes can help manage it:
- Weight loss
- Reducing salt intake to less than 1500 mg per day
- Following a healthy and balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, and its products
- Abstaining from alcohol
- Quitting smoking
- Avoiding sources of stress
#### What Are the Consequences of High Blood Pressure?
The danger of sudden high blood pressure lies in its potential to lead to a heart attack, stroke, or cerebral hemorrhage. It may also cause kidney failure or bleeding in the eyes. The heart pumps blood into the arteries throughout the body, and high blood pressure is dangerous because it increases the strain on the heart, making it work harder to pump blood, which contributes to arteriosclerosis. Over time, this can lead to kidney disease or heart failure, along with other serious health problems.
