Written by:
Dr. Abdul Hameed M. Hassan, MD
Consultant, Family Medicine
Chairman, Family Medicine Center
International Medical Center, Jeddah
Millions of people worldwide are either overweight or obese. It seems as though many people in modern societies are living a life that leads to high blood pressure or hypertension. However, as people age, the situation gets worse. Nearly half of all old aged people have hypertension. This disease makes people more prone to strokes, three times more likely to have a heart attack, and two to three times more likely to experience a heart failure.
Studies indicate that it is because of the types of foods that are consumed; such as foods that are high in fat, especially saturated fats can cause hypertension. In addition to that, using a lot of salt has also been linked to high blood pressure. Yet, lack of exercise and obesity are also among the causes of hypertension.
Other causes include high caffeine intake, such as coffee and soda, lack of exercise, smoking, and high cholesterol levels. Therefore, people who are diagnosed with hypertension are more likely to suffer from heart disease, heart attacks, strokes and kidney related problems.
Where there is cause for concern, it is not necessary to panic or stress over the diagnosis. There are ways to treat hypertension and still lead a normal life. There are many different types of medications called Anti-hypertensives on the market today that can treat hypertension by lowering blood pressure to an acceptable level. Usually doctors are aware on what level is right for you.
Lifestyle plays an important role in treating your high blood pressure. If you successfully control your blood pressure with a healthy lifestyle, you might avoid, delay or reduce the need for medication. However, maintaining a proper blood pressure is critical because it affects the critical parts of your body. Heart, kidneys, the adrenal glands and brain function are all affected by blood pressure.
Hypertension can affect every aspect of your life. If you do not treat it, it can lead to serious, sometimes fatal, results. It is crucial to your health to make the necessary changes to lower your blood pressure. This will insure a long and happy life.
