High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Causes and Symptoms
High blood pressure, medically known as hypertension, is often referred to as a "silent killer" because it typically develops without obvious symptoms, yet it significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease. The good news? It’s manageable—and often preventable—with lifestyle changes and natural remedies.
In this blog, let’s explore the causes, symptoms, and risk factors of hypertension to help you take control of your heart health.
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it throughout your body. It is measured using two numbers:
- Systolic Pressure (upper number): The pressure when your heart beats.
- Diastolic Pressure (lower number): The pressure when your heart rests between beats.
A normal blood pressure reading is generally considered 120/80 mmHg .
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
1. Primary (Essential) Hypertension
This is the most common type and develops gradually over years. Causes include:
- Genetic factors
- Ageing (especially above 60)
- Poor lifestyle habits (smoking, excess salt, alcohol)
- Lack of physical activity
2. Secondary Hypertension
This type appears suddenly and may result in more severe high blood pressure. Common causes include:
- Kidney disease
- Sleep apnea
- Thyroid disorders
- Congenital blood vessel issues
- Certain medications
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Most people with hypertension may not experience any symptoms until the condition becomes severe. That’s why it’s often called a silent killer.
Possible Symptoms of Severe or Acute Hypertension:
- Severe headaches
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fainting
- Blurred or double vision
- Fatigue
- Nosebleeds
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pounding in chest, neck, or ears
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Tip: If you have a family history of hypertension, monitor your blood pressure regularly—even if you feel fine.
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How Blood Pressure Harm your Body
- Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure can:
- Enlarge and weaken the heart muscle
- Lead to heart failure
- Cause arterial stiffness and rupture (leading to stroke)
- Increase plaque formation (atherosclerosis)
- Reduce kidney function
- Increase risk of brain hemorrhages or silent strokes
- Fact: People with hypertension are up to 60% more likely to experience small, undetected strokes in the brain that can affect memory and cognitive function over time.
How to Reduce the Risk of High Blood Pressure
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Even losing 5 kg can lower your systolic blood pressure by around 7 mmHg.
- Reduce Salt Intake
- Avoid processed foods and minimize table salt. Excess sodium increases water retention and blood pressure.
- Limit Alcohol
- Keep alcohol intake within healthy limits:
- Women: No more than 1 drink/day
- Men: No more than 2 drinks/day
- Exercise Regularly
- 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or swimming) per week can significantly improve blood pressure and heart health.
- Try Natural Ayurvedic Support
- Herbal remedies, like ARJUNA , can support heart health naturally. It contains herbs like:
- Sarpagandha – known to reduce blood pressure
- Jatamansi and Sankhpushpi – support the nervous system and reduce stress
- Rudraksha – balances the body and mind
Final Thoughts
- Managing high blood pressure is a lifelong commitment—but it doesn’t have to be difficult. With regular monitoring, a healthy lifestyle, and natural support like Ayurvedic supplements, you can keep your blood pressure in check and protect your heart.
- Take charge of your health—know your numbers and act early.
