Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Hypertension is a condition where the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

What are the symptoms?

Often no symptoms (can be "silent")
Headaches
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Chest pain (in severe cases)
Vision changes

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Anxiety
Sleep apnea
Kidney disease
Hyperthyroidism
Pheochromocytoma

What are the aggravating factors?

Lack of physical activity
Poor diet (high salt, low potassium)
Excessive alcohol consumption
Smoking
Genetics and family history
Obesity
Stress

What types of food are helpful?

DASH diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
Reduce sodium intake: Limit processed foods, avoid adding extra salt.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish like salmon, which help reduce blood pressure.

Sample Recipe: Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salad

Ingredients: Salmon, avocado, cherry tomatoes, spinach, olive oil, lemon.
Directions: Grill salmon and serve over a fresh salad of avocado, spinach, and tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil.

What are the traditional treatments?

Antihypertensive medications: ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, calcium channel blockers.
Lifestyle changes: Reducing salt intake, losing weight, exercising regularly.
Monitoring: Regular blood pressure checks.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Garlic: Studies suggest garlic supplements may help lower blood pressure.
Coenzyme Q10: May improve blood vessel function and reduce blood pressure.
Yoga and meditation: Can help reduce stress, a major contributor to hypertension.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk.