High Blood Pressure

5/8/20242 min read

What is it? Causes? Symptoms? Treatment?

Hypertension, more commonly known as high blood pressure, is a prevalent and dangerous condition.

In Brazil, about more than 50 million people live with high blood pressure.

It is classified as a chronic disease, with blood pressure levels above 140x90 mmHg.

This occurs when the force of the blood running through the arteries is higher than usual, causing the heart to work harder to compensate for this demand.

Usually, high blood pressure does not have a specific cause and there are no associated symptoms, yet it still causes damage to the heart. However, some people may experience headaches, dizziness, and even visual changes. Its cause can be linked to poor eating habits, such as excessive salt intake.

High blood pressure has 3 different types: type 1, type 2, and type 3.

  • Type 1: Blood pressure is above 140x90 mmHg.

  • Type 2: Blood pressure is above 160x100 mmHg.

  • Type 3: Blood pressure is above 180x110 mmHg, considered a hypertensive emergency.

The main causes of high blood pressure include:

  • Chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart diseases.

  • Men

  • Age, over 55 years

  • Stress

  • Smoking

  • Excessive alcohol consumption

  • Obesity

  • Sedentary lifestyle

The main symptoms of high blood pressure include:

  • Headaches

  • Dizziness

  • Tinnitus

  • Nosebleed

  • Chest pain

  • Shortness of breath

Blood pressure can be measured using electronic or manual devices with a stethoscope and a sphygmomanometer.

The treatment for high blood pressure varies depending on each case and may include the adoption of healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and regular physical exercise.

High blood pressure can have many consequences on a person's life and can be fatal. It is important to always maintain regular medical follow-ups with a general practitioner or cardiologist to identify possible risks and treatments.

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Comentários:

-Gabriel Carvalho dos Santos: Parabéns pelo excelente texto, um conteúdo analítico, compreensível e bem estruturado!

Escritora:

Texto dirigido por Nathalia Carvalho dos Santos, acadêmica do quarto ano de medicina pela faculdade Integrado, Campo Mourão

Nathalia Carvalho dos Santos

Acadêmica de medicina