High blood pressure (hypertension) is a condition where blood pressure is higher than normal, defined as ≥140/90 mmHg. This disease is a dangerous "silent threat" because patients may show no symptoms. However, without proper treatment, severe and life-threatening complications can occur.

Hypertension: A Chronic Disease

Hypertension is a chronic disease that cannot be cured. Blood pressure-lowering medications help control blood pressure to normal levels, reducing the risk of complications. Patients should:

• Visit a doctor regularly for treatment and take medications consistently.

• Never stop, increase, or decrease medication doses without medical advice.

• Some patients, after long-term medication use with no symptoms, may mistakenly believe they are cured and stop taking their medication. This can cause blood pressure to rise again, leading to complications.

What Complications Can Uncontrolled Hypertension Cause?

1. Stroke: Brain hemorrhage or blockage, causing paralysis.

2. Coronary Artery Disease: Blocked heart arteries, leading to heart attacks or myocardial infarction.

3. Heart Enlargement: Abnormal thickening of the heart muscle.

4. Heart Failure: Fatigue, inability to lie flat, swelling.

5. Aortic Aneurysm: Weakening and rupture of the aorta in the chest or abdomen, which can cause sudden death.

6. Kidney Damage: Kidney deterioration or failure.

7. Retinal Damage: Blurred vision due to impaired blood flow to the retina.

Key Takeaways

If left untreated or poorly controlled, hypertension leads to serious complications. Patients must:

• Take blood pressure medications as prescribed.

• Adopt lifestyle changes:

  • Reduce salty and high-fat foods.

  • Exercise regularly.

  • Maintain a healthy weight.

  • Manage stress.

• Attend regular medical check-ups for ongoing monitoring and treatment.

Uncontrolled hypertension is life-threatening. Consistent treatment saves lives!