Details of the consultation

Hypertension is a chronic cardiovascular condition with a high prevalence, particularly among the elderly. According to a 2016 survey by the Vietnam Society of Cardiology, approximately 48% of Vietnamese adults were affected by hypertension. Alarmingly, this condition is a leading cause of severe complications and is responsible for the deaths of 7 million people worldwide each year.

What is hypertension? 

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition in which the pressure of blood against the walls of the arteries is significantly elevated. Blood pressure is measured using two values: systolic pressure (the maximum pressure when the heart contracts) and diastolic pressure (the minimum pressure when the heart rests between beats).

According to standard medical guidelines, normal blood pressure is defined as below 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). Hypertension is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure is 130 mmHg or higher, or diastolic blood pressure is 80 mmHg or higher. This condition requires monitoring and treatment to reduce the risk of developing serious health complications.

Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it usually causes no obvious symptoms in its early stages. As a result, many individuals may be unaware they have the condition until severe health problems occur, such as stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, or eye damage.

The prevalence of hypertension is extremely high, affecting a large portion of the global population. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) showed that in 2019, approximately 1 billion people worldwide were living with hypertension. Alarmingly, this number continues to rise due to multiple factors, including unhealthy lifestyles and an aging population.

Complications of hypertension

Hypertension can lead to a wide range of complications, affecting multiple aspects of a patient’s health:

Cardiovascular disease 

Hypertension can cause various cardiovascular problems, including myocardial infarction, heart failure, angina, and vascular occlusion. Prolonged high blood pressure increases the workload on the heart and blood vessels, leading to damage and impaired cardiac function.

Stroke 

High blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for stroke. When blood vessels in the brain are damaged or ruptured due to excessive pressure, blood flow and oxygen supply to brain tissue are disrupted, resulting in brain damage or death.

Kidney disease 

Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their function. This may lead to kidney failure, making it difficult for the body to eliminate waste products and excess fluids effectively.

Coronary artery disease

 Hypertension increases the risk of coronary artery disease, in which blood vessels supplying the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked. This can cause angina, myocardial infarction, and potentially acute heart attacks.

Cerebrovascular disease 

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cerebrovascular conditions such as stroke, dementia, and cognitive decline. Elevated blood pressure damages cerebral blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of hemorrhage or ischemia in the brain.

Other conditions: Hypertension may also contribute to other health problems such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and eye disorders including cataracts and glaucoma.

To reduce the risk of complications and optimize overall health, it is essential to maintain blood pressure within a stable range. At the same time, recognizing the symptoms and potential complications of hypertension is important for timely prevention and intervention.

Symptoms of hypertension 

Hypertension often causes no obvious symptoms in its early stages, which is why many people remain unaware of their condition until serious health problems develop. However, when blood pressure becomes significantly elevated and persists over time, the following symptoms may occur:

Headache: Headache, particularly at the back of the head or in the temples, may be a symptom of hypertension. However, headaches can arise from many other causes, so medical evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause.

Dizziness and blurred vision: Feelings of dizziness, blurred vision, or lightheadedness may occur when blood pressure rises suddenly.

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears): Some individuals may experience tinnitus during episodes of elevated blood pressure.

Shortness of breath or wheezing: Hypertension can cause breathing difficulties or wheezing due to its effects on the respiratory system and blood circulation.

Nausea or vomiting: In certain cases, hypertension may lead to nausea or vomiting.

Fatigue: Persistent feelings of tiredness, exhaustion, and lack of energy may also be signs of hypertension.

These symptoms often appear in the later stages of hypertension or when the condition becomes severe. Therefore, regular blood pressure monitoring and routine health check-ups are crucial for early detection and effective management of hypertension.

Note: Symptoms of hypertension may vary from person to person and may not always be obvious. Anyone experiencing these symptoms, or who suspects they may have hypertension, should seek medical advice for proper evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

Causes of hypertension

Hypertension arises from multiple factors and is often the result of an interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental influences. The main causes include:

Genetic factors: Genetics play an important role in the development of hypertension. Individuals with a family history of hypertension are at higher risk. Genes involved in regulating blood pressure and vascular function may influence susceptibility to the condition.

Unhealthy diet: A diet high in salt (sodium) and fat, low in fruits and vegetables, and deficient in potassium and vitamin D can increase the risk of hypertension. Sodium causes fluid retention, increasing pressure on arterial walls, while excessive fat contributes to arterial blockage and stiffness.

Lack of physical activity: Sedentary behavior and insufficient exercise can raise blood pressure. Inactivity contributes to increased vascular resistance and greater strain on blood vessel walls.

Environmental factors and stress: External conditions can also increase hypertension risk. Factors such as air pollution, noise, occupational stress, and daily life pressures may contribute to elevated blood pressure.

Other contributing factors: Additional risk factors include age (risk increases with age), sex (men are more likely to develop hypertension before menopause), cognitive decline, comorbidities (such as kidney disease or thyroid disorders), and the use of certain medications (such as corticosteroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Treatment and management of hypertension 

The treatment and management of hypertension typically involve a combination of lifestyle modifications and prescribed medications:

Lifestyle and dietary modifications

Adopting a healthy diet is a key component in managing hypertension. Patients are advised to consume more vegetables, fruits, potassium-rich foods, and dietary fiber, while reducing salt (sodium) and fat intake, and limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption. Weight reduction is also recommended for those who are overweight.

Regular physical activity

 Engaging in regular, appropriate exercise can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. Patients should aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise per week, including aerobic activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling. Strength training and more vigorous exercises may also be beneficial but should only be undertaken after consulting a physician.

Reader may also be interested in: 

• Myocardial infarction: A serious cardiovascular disease and key facts to remember
• Tachycardia: Causes and management
• Tachycardia: Causes and management

Medication 

In certain cases, medication is required to control blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. Several classes of antihypertensive drugs may be prescribed, including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, thiazide diuretics, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.

Home management and regular monitoring

 Patients should adopt self-care practices such as regular blood pressure monitoring, strict adherence to prescribed medications, and routine follow-up visits as scheduled by their physician. Maintaining a healthy diet and practicing stress reduction techniques are also crucial for effective hypertension control.

Consultation with specialists

 For effective management of hypertension, consultation with a physician is essential for accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning. Depending on the patient’s overall health status, the doctor will recommend the most appropriate therapeutic regimen.

Prevention of hypertension

Preventing hypertension is one of the most effective ways to maintain cardiovascular health. The following are key preventive measures:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

• Balanced diet: Limit salt and fat intake, increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, potassium-rich foods, and dietary fiber.
• Weight management: If overweight, losing weight helps reduce strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine: Consume alcohol in moderation and reduce intake of caffeinated beverages such as coffee and carbonated soft drinks.

Exercise regularly

• At least 150 minutes per week: Engage in aerobic activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling.
• Increase daily activity: In addition to scheduled exercise, incorporate more physical activity into daily routines, such as walking, jogging, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

Manage stress

• Practice stress reduction: Adopt relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, exercise, or dedicating time for self-care.
• Identify and address stressors: Learn stress management skills and find solutions to reduce the impact of daily life stressors.

Limit exposure to risk factors

• Avoid tobacco smoke: Do not smoke and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Reduce exposure to air pollution: Minimize contact with polluted environments and protect respiratory health.

Regular health check-ups

• Routine blood pressure monitoring: Regularly check blood pressure to detect hypertension early and adjust treatment promptly.
• Comprehensive health evaluation: Periodically monitor other important health indicators such as cholesterol, blood glucose, potassium levels, and cardiovascular function.

For individuals at high risk of hypertension, preventive measures should ideally begin as early as adolescence. However, anyone can adopt these strategies to maintain good cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of developing hypertension.

Note: The above information is for general reference only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you experience any symptoms or concerns related to hypertension, please consult a physician for appropriate evaluation and treatment.

The Cardiology Department at Hong Ngoc General Hospital is a trusted destination for cardiovascular care. With a team of highly qualified specialists and state-of-the-art equipment, the department provides accurate detection of hypertension-related conditions, effective treatment protocols, and personalized, dedicated counseling for every patient.

Register for consultation and examination with cardiology specialists at Hong Ngoc General Hospital here:

Note: The information provided in this article by Hong Ngoc General Hospital is for reference only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Patients must not self-medicate. For an accurate assessment of your condition, please visit a hospital for direct examination, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment planning by a physician.

Follow the official fanpage of Hong Ngoc General Hospital for more useful health information.

Hypertension is a chronic cardiovascular condition with a high prevalence, particularly among the elderly. According to a 2016 survey by the Vietnam Society of Cardiology, approximately 48% of Vietnamese adults were affected by hypertension. Alarmingly, this condition is a leading cause of severe complications and is responsible for the deaths of 7 million people worldwide each year.

What is hypertension? 

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition in which the pressure of blood against the walls of the arteries is significantly elevated. Blood pressure is measured using two values: systolic pressure (the maximum pressure when the heart contracts) and diastolic pressure (the minimum pressure when the heart rests between beats).

According to standard medical guidelines, normal blood pressure is defined as below 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). Hypertension is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure is 130 mmHg or higher, or diastolic blood pressure is 80 mmHg or higher. This condition requires monitoring and treatment to reduce the risk of developing serious health complications.

Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it usually causes no obvious symptoms in its early stages. As a result, many individuals may be unaware they have the condition until severe health problems occur, such as stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, or eye damage.

The prevalence of hypertension is extremely high, affecting a large portion of the global population. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) showed that in 2019, approximately 1 billion people worldwide were living with hypertension. Alarmingly, this number continues to rise due to multiple factors, including unhealthy lifestyles and an aging population.

Complications of hypertension

Hypertension can lead to a wide range of complications, affecting multiple aspects of a patient’s health:

Cardiovascular disease 

Hypertension can cause various cardiovascular problems, including myocardial infarction, heart failure, angina, and vascular occlusion. Prolonged high blood pressure increases the workload on the heart and blood vessels, leading to damage and impaired cardiac function.

Stroke 

High blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for stroke. When blood vessels in the brain are damaged or ruptured due to excessive pressure, blood flow and oxygen supply to brain tissue are disrupted, resulting in brain damage or death.

Kidney disease 

Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their function. This may lead to kidney failure, making it difficult for the body to eliminate waste products and excess fluids effectively.

Coronary artery disease

 Hypertension increases the risk of coronary artery disease, in which blood vessels supplying the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked. This can cause angina, myocardial infarction, and potentially acute heart attacks.

Cerebrovascular disease 

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cerebrovascular conditions such as stroke, dementia, and cognitive decline. Elevated blood pressure damages cerebral blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of hemorrhage or ischemia in the brain.

Other conditions: Hypertension may also contribute to other health problems such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and eye disorders including cataracts and glaucoma.

To reduce the risk of complications and optimize overall health, it is essential to maintain blood pressure within a stable range. At the same time, recognizing the symptoms and potential complications of hypertension is important for timely prevention and intervention.

Symptoms of hypertension 

Hypertension often causes no obvious symptoms in its early stages, which is why many people remain unaware of their condition until serious health problems develop. However, when blood pressure becomes significantly elevated and persists over time, the following symptoms may occur:

Headache: Headache, particularly at the back of the head or in the temples, may be a symptom of hypertension. However, headaches can arise from many other causes, so medical evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause.

Dizziness and blurred vision: Feelings of dizziness, blurred vision, or lightheadedness may occur when blood pressure rises suddenly.

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears): Some individuals may experience tinnitus during episodes of elevated blood pressure.

Shortness of breath or wheezing: Hypertension can cause breathing difficulties or wheezing due to its effects on the respiratory system and blood circulation.

Nausea or vomiting: In certain cases, hypertension may lead to nausea or vomiting.

Fatigue: Persistent feelings of tiredness, exhaustion, and lack of energy may also be signs of hypertension.

These symptoms often appear in the later stages of hypertension or when the condition becomes severe. Therefore, regular blood pressure monitoring and routine health check-ups are crucial for early detection and effective management of hypertension.

Note: Symptoms of hypertension may vary from person to person and may not always be obvious. Anyone experiencing these symptoms, or who suspects they may have hypertension, should seek medical advice for proper evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

Causes of hypertension

Hypertension arises from multiple factors and is often the result of an interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental influences. The main causes include:

Genetic factors: Genetics play an important role in the development of hypertension. Individuals with a family history of hypertension are at higher risk. Genes involved in regulating blood pressure and vascular function may influence susceptibility to the condition.

Unhealthy diet: A diet high in salt (sodium) and fat, low in fruits and vegetables, and deficient in potassium and vitamin D can increase the risk of hypertension. Sodium causes fluid retention, increasing pressure on arterial walls, while excessive fat contributes to arterial blockage and stiffness.

Lack of physical activity: Sedentary behavior and insufficient exercise can raise blood pressure. Inactivity contributes to increased vascular resistance and greater strain on blood vessel walls.

Environmental factors and stress: External conditions can also increase hypertension risk. Factors such as air pollution, noise, occupational stress, and daily life pressures may contribute to elevated blood pressure.

Other contributing factors: Additional risk factors include age (risk increases with age), sex (men are more likely to develop hypertension before menopause), cognitive decline, comorbidities (such as kidney disease or thyroid disorders), and the use of certain medications (such as corticosteroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Treatment and management of hypertension 

The treatment and management of hypertension typically involve a combination of lifestyle modifications and prescribed medications:

Lifestyle and dietary modifications

Adopting a healthy diet is a key component in managing hypertension. Patients are advised to consume more vegetables, fruits, potassium-rich foods, and dietary fiber, while reducing salt (sodium) and fat intake, and limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption. Weight reduction is also recommended for those who are overweight.

Regular physical activity

 Engaging in regular, appropriate exercise can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. Patients should aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise per week, including aerobic activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling. Strength training and more vigorous exercises may also be beneficial but should only be undertaken after consulting a physician.

Reader may also be interested in: 

• Myocardial infarction: A serious cardiovascular disease and key facts to remember
• Tachycardia: Causes and management
• Tachycardia: Causes and management

Medication 

In certain cases, medication is required to control blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. Several classes of antihypertensive drugs may be prescribed, including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, thiazide diuretics, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.

Home management and regular monitoring

 Patients should adopt self-care practices such as regular blood pressure monitoring, strict adherence to prescribed medications, and routine follow-up visits as scheduled by their physician. Maintaining a healthy diet and practicing stress reduction techniques are also crucial for effective hypertension control.

Consultation with specialists

 For effective management of hypertension, consultation with a physician is essential for accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning. Depending on the patient’s overall health status, the doctor will recommend the most appropriate therapeutic regimen.

Prevention of hypertension

Preventing hypertension is one of the most effective ways to maintain cardiovascular health. The following are key preventive measures:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

• Balanced diet: Limit salt and fat intake, increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, potassium-rich foods, and dietary fiber.
• Weight management: If overweight, losing weight helps reduce strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine: Consume alcohol in moderation and reduce intake of caffeinated beverages such as coffee and carbonated soft drinks.

Exercise regularly

• At least 150 minutes per week: Engage in aerobic activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling.
• Increase daily activity: In addition to scheduled exercise, incorporate more physical activity into daily routines, such as walking, jogging, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

Manage stress

• Practice stress reduction: Adopt relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, exercise, or dedicating time for self-care.
• Identify and address stressors: Learn stress management skills and find solutions to reduce the impact of daily life stressors.

Limit exposure to risk factors

• Avoid tobacco smoke: Do not smoke and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Reduce exposure to air pollution: Minimize contact with polluted environments and protect respiratory health.

Regular health check-ups

• Routine blood pressure monitoring: Regularly check blood pressure to detect hypertension early and adjust treatment promptly.
• Comprehensive health evaluation: Periodically monitor other important health indicators such as cholesterol, blood glucose, potassium levels, and cardiovascular function.

For individuals at high risk of hypertension, preventive measures should ideally begin as early as adolescence. However, anyone can adopt these strategies to maintain good cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of developing hypertension.

Note: The above information is for general reference only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you experience any symptoms or concerns related to hypertension, please consult a physician for appropriate evaluation and treatment.

The Cardiology Department at Hong Ngoc General Hospital is a trusted destination for cardiovascular care. With a team of highly qualified specialists and state-of-the-art equipment, the department provides accurate detection of hypertension-related conditions, effective treatment protocols, and personalized, dedicated counseling for every patient.

Register for consultation and examination with cardiology specialists at Hong Ngoc General Hospital here:

Note: The information provided in this article by Hong Ngoc General Hospital is for reference only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Patients must not self-medicate. For an accurate assessment of your condition, please visit a hospital for direct examination, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment planning by a physician.

Follow the official fanpage of Hong Ngoc General Hospital for more useful health information.