CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

High blood pressure is caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Genetics.
• A family history of high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
• Age (the risk increases after age 65).
• Obesity.
• Dietary factors such as a diet that is high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats, low in fiber and healthy fruits and vegetables.
• Lack of physical activity.

SYMPTOMS

If you have high blood pressure, the condition may not cause any symptoms. However, some people who are in the early stages of hypertensive heart disease may notice:

• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Dizziness.
• Shortness of breath.
• A fast heartbeat.
• Headaches.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE?

When you have high blood pressure, it is like a ticking time bomb in your body. Over time, the pressure of your blood on your arteries can cause damage to them, leading to:

• Stiffening of the blood vessels.
• Bleeding and blockage of the blood vessels.
• Damage to organs such as the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes.

WHAT IS HYPERTENSIVE HEART DISEASE?

Hypertensive heart disease is a condition where your heart works harder to pump blood through narrow arteries, which can lead to:

• Cardiac hypertrophy.
• Heart failure.

HOW IS HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE DIAGNOSED?

High blood pressure is usually diagnosed with a simple blood test. Your doctor may also ask about your medical history, lifestyle and any symptoms you are experiencing.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MY MEDICAL HISTORY?

If you have had high blood pressure before or if you have a family history of the condition, you should tell your doctor. Your doctor may also want to know about any medical conditions that you have.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MY LIFESTYLE?

You will need to make lifestyle changes such as:

• Exercising regularly.
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet.
• Avoiding tobacco and alcohol.

HOW CAN I TAKE CARE OF MYSELF?

When you have high blood pressure, it’s very important to take your medicines as directed by your doctor. You will also need to:

• Monitor your blood pressure regularly.
• Get treated for any medical conditions that you have.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MY MEDICINES?

You will need to take the medicines your doctor ordered regularly, as directed. You may also need to:

• Monitor your blood pressure and report any changes.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MY FAMILY HISTORY?

If you have a family history of high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease, it may affect the course of treatment.

OUTLOOK AND PROGNOSIS

Hypertensive heart disease is a long-term condition that can lead to:

• Cardiac complications.
• Pulmonary embolism.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT IF I HAVE HYPERTENSION?

If you have high blood pressure, your lifestyle and treatment will change over time.