What is hypertension?
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the main causes of cardiovascular disease. It significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke or kidney failure, all of which can be fatal. People with high blood pressure often have no symptoms, which is why hypertension is called “the silent killer”.
As blood flows around the body, it pushes against the walls of the arteries; this force is blood pressure. It is divided into systolic (the “top” number) and diastolic (the “bottom” number) pressure, which is why a reading gives two values. The first corresponds to the heart contracting and the second to the heart relaxing (diastole).
The chances of developing hypertension increase with age.
| Category | Blood pressure |
|---|---|
| Normal | below 120/80 mmHg |
| Prehypertension | 120–139 / 80–89 mmHg |
| Hypertension | 140/90 mmHg and above |
What causes hypertension?
There are two types of hypertension: primary and secondary.
Primary hypertension. This is the most common type. Its cause is unknown, but factors such as too much salt, obesity, smoking, alcohol, genetic predisposition and certain medicines contribute to it. In addition, various hormones produced in the kidneys play a key role in how it starts and persists.
Secondary hypertension. This is the result of other conditions, such as kidney disease, Cushing’s syndrome and primary hyperaldosteronism. The latter is caused by a disorder of the adrenal glands and is found in more than 10% of patients with hypertension.
How is it treated?
Although there is no definitive cure for primary hypertension, more than 80 medicines are available to lower blood pressure. Doctors usually combine them with lifestyle changes. Secondary hypertension is treated with surgery or with conservative (non-surgical) treatment, depending on the cause.
What does this mean for you?
If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, measure your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor’s advice on medication and lifestyle. The aim is a systolic pressure below 140 mmHg and a diastolic pressure below 90 mmHg. If you have diabetes or kidney disease, the target is below 130/80 mmHg. If your blood pressure is not within these limits, talk to your doctor about any changes to your treatment.
For a healthier lifestyle
- Keep your body weight stable and within the normal range (body mass index 18.5–24.9 kg/m²).
- Cut down on saturated fat and total fat. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, and choose low-fat dairy products.
- Cut down on salt (sodium).
- Do moderate exercise (e.g. brisk walking) for at least 30 minutes a day, on as many days of the week as you can.
- Limit alcohol: no more than 2 drinks a day for men and no more than 1 drink a day for women.
Practising endocrinology since 1997 at her clinic in Chalandri, Athens. About the doctor
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical examination. For any health concern, please consult your doctor.