Elevated blood pressure may not cause pronounced symptoms for a long time. That is why patients often learn about the problem by chance — during a preventive examination or already when complications appear. It is important to understand that arterial hypertension is not just an episodic increase in blood pressure readings.
High blood pressure is one of the key risk factors for the development of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and kidney failure. At the same time, with timely diagnosis, properly selected therapy, and lifestyle correction, the course of the disease can be stabilized and the risks significantly reduced.
In this article, we will consistently review what hypertension is, which readings are considered dangerous, and how to control this condition.
What Is Arterial Hypertension
Arterial hypertension is a chronic condition in which blood pressure readings consistently exceed normal values. In a healthy adult, a level of about 120/80 mm Hg is considered optimal. If blood pressure regularly rises to 140/90 mm Hg or higher, this is grounds for establishing a diagnosis.
Blood pressure is determined by two indicators: systolic — during heart contraction, and diastolic — during its relaxation phase. In hypertension, the mechanism regulating vascular tone and heart function is disrupted, resulting in increased stress on the vascular walls. Over time, this can lead to their thickening, decreased elasticity, and damage to the so-called target organs — the heart, brain, and kidneys.
In most cases, the disease is primary in nature and develops gradually under the influence of various risk factors. At the same time, there is also a secondary form, when elevated blood pressure is the result of another pathology — for example, endocrine disorders or kidney diseases. Understanding the mechanism of hypertension development makes it possible to choose the correct examination strategy and further treatment.
What Blood Pressure Indicates Hypertension
The diagnosis is established when the values consistently exceed acceptable limits and are confirmed by repeated measurements on different days. A single increase does not yet mean the presence of the disease, since blood pressure may temporarily rise due to stress, physical exertion, or emotional strain.
According to modern recommendations, the following levels are distinguished:
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optimal — up to 120/80 mm Hg;
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normal — up to 129/84 mm Hg;
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high normal — 130–139/85–89 mm Hg;
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hypertension — from 140/90 mm Hg and above.
The higher the readings, the greater the risk of damage to the heart, blood vessels, and kidneys. Prolonged maintenance of blood pressure above 160/100 mm Hg is especially dangerous, as in such cases the likelihood of stroke and heart attack increases.
It is also important to consider associated risk factors. For example, obesity significantly increases the load on the cardiovascular system and contributes to the progression of hypertension. Therefore, the patient’s condition is always assessed comprehensively — taking into account age, body weight, cholesterol levels, and other indicators.
Can Hypertension Be Cured
Hypertension belongs to chronic diseases, so in most cases the issue is not a complete “cure,” but long-term control of blood pressure readings. With properly selected therapy and regular medical supervision, it is possible to achieve stable values and significantly reduce the risk of complications.
In the early stages, lifestyle changes may sometimes be sufficient — normalizing body weight, adjusting nutrition, increasing physical activity, and reducing stress levels. If blood pressure remains elevated, the doctor prescribes medication. Drugs are selected individually, taking into account age, comorbidities, and overall cardiovascular risk.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure is of particular importance. Unauthorized discontinuation of medication or irregular intake can lead to sharp fluctuations in blood pressure and an increased risk of complications. That is why hypertension treatment is a systematic and long-term effort aimed at maintaining a stable condition.
Which Doctor Treats Hypertension
The first specialist patients usually consult for elevated blood pressure is a family doctor or general practitioner. They conduct an initial assessment, prescribe basic examinations, and determine the further management strategy.
If necessary, a cardiologist is involved in the examination and treatment, especially if there are already signs of heart damage, rhythm disturbances, or a high risk of cardiovascular complications. The cardiologist уточняет the stage of the disease, evaluates the condition of target organs, and selects an individual therapy regimen.
In cases of secondary hypertension, consultation with other specialists — an endocrinologist, nephrologist, or neurologist — may be required. This approach makes it possible to identify a possible cause of elevated blood pressure and address not only the symptom but also the underlying disease.
How to Treat Hypertension
The treatment plan is always selected individually. The doctor takes into account how high the blood pressure is, whether there are comorbidities, how the kidneys function, and whether cardiovascular events have already occurred. It is important to understand: the same regimen is not suitable for everyone, so relying on advice from acquaintances or “experience from the internet” is dangerous.
Effective control of hypertension consists of three mandatory elements:
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regular home blood pressure monitoring;
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daily intake of prescribed medications;
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changes in habits that affect the cardiovascular system.
Taking medication only when a headache or discomfort appears is a mistake. Elevated blood pressure can damage blood vessels even without noticeable symptoms.
It is useful to keep a blood pressure diary, especially at the beginning of treatment or after changing medications. Record the date, time, readings, pulse, and well-being. This helps the doctor assess dynamics and, if necessary, adjust therapy.
Blood pressure should be measured in a calm state, after a short rest, without talking. The arm should rest on support at heart level, and the cuff should match the size of the upper arm. Such seemingly minor details significantly affect the accuracy of the result.
If, despite treatment, blood pressure rises sharply and is accompanied by chest pain, severe shortness of breath, weakness in the limbs, speech or vision disturbances, do not delay — seek emergency medical care immediately.
What Is Used to Treat Hypertension
The basis of drug therapy consists of several groups of antihypertensive medications. The doctor selects them taking into account kidney function, the presence of diabetes, rhythm disorders, angina, or heart failure, as well as laboratory tests and ECG results.
Most commonly used:
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ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers;
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calcium channel blockers;
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thiazide/thiazide-like diuretics;
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beta-blockers (when indicated);
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other medications — if basic combinations are not sufficiently effective.
A common strategy is a combination of two drugs in low doses, as this makes it easier to achieve a stable effect with fewer side effects. Changing the dosage or discontinuing medication on your own is dangerous: sharp blood pressure fluctuations increase the risk of complications.
To avoid missing doses, link medication intake to a daily routine (breakfast/brushing teeth), use a pill organizer, and set reminders on your phone. If swelling, cough, dizziness, or other complaints appear — do not “tolerate” them, but inform your doctor: there are usually alternatives available.
What You Can Eat with Hypertension
Nutrition should reduce the load on blood vessels and help control body weight. A useful guide is the “plate” model: half vegetables, a quarter protein, a quarter complex carbohydrates, plus healthy fats in small amounts.
What to add to your diet:
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vegetables and greens daily;
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fruit 1–2 servings per day;
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whole grains and legumes;
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lean fish 2 times per week;
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poultry, low-fat dairy products;
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nuts/seeds in small portions;
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water throughout the day according to thirst (the amount should be agreed upon in kidney/heart diseases).
A practical tip: start with salt, as it often “maintains” high numbers. Try cooking with minimal salt for 2–3 weeks and enhance flavor with spices, lemon, garlic, and herbs.
What You Should Not Eat with Hypertension
In most cases, elevated blood pressure is provoked not by home-cooked meals, but by hidden salt and excess calories in processed foods. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to product composition.
What is better to limit:
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sausages, hot dogs, smoked products, canned foods;
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salty cheeses, pickles, sauces, and fast food;
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snacks, chips, crackers;
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pastries, sweets, sugary drinks;
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fatty fried foods, trans fats.
If there is excess body weight, calorie control and gradual weight reduction significantly improve blood pressure control. Even modest weight loss can reduce the need for medication or simplify the regimen, but this should be done without “strict diets” and sudden restrictions.
Can You Drink Coffee with Hypertension
Caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure, especially in people who drink coffee rarely or are sensitive to stimulants. For some patients, moderate coffee consumption is possible if blood pressure is well controlled and there are no symptoms.
A practical test: measure your blood pressure before drinking coffee and 30–60 minutes after. If readings rise significantly or you experience palpitations, tremor, or anxiety — it is better to limit the drink or switch to a decaffeinated option. It is also not advisable to combine coffee with energy drinks or “enhancers” such as large amounts of sugar.
Lifestyle in Hypertension: Key Recommendations
Blood pressure control is impossible without changes in daily habits. Even the most modern medications work more effectively if the patient follows basic principles of a healthy lifestyle. It is the combination of drug therapy and a conscious attitude toward one’s health that allows blood pressure readings to be maintained within safe limits.
Weight control. Excess body weight creates additional strain on the heart and blood vessels. Obesity is associated with elevated blood pressure, metabolic disorders, and an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. Even gradual weight loss of 5–10% can positively affect blood pressure readings.
Regular physical activity. Moderate exercise strengthens the cardiovascular system and improves vascular tone. At least 30 minutes of activity 5 times a week is recommended — brisk walking, swimming, cycling, therapeutic exercises. Intense workouts should be coordinated with a doctor.
Balanced nutrition and salt restriction. Excess table salt contributes to fluid retention in the body and increased blood pressure. The daily norm is no more than 5 g. The diet should include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol consumption. Nicotine causes vascular spasm and reduces elasticity, while excessive alcohol intake raises blood pressure and disrupts heart rhythm. Giving this up significantly reduces the risk of complications.
Stress management and adequate sleep. Chronic emotional stress can provoke blood pressure fluctuations. Regular sleep lasting 7–8 hours, alternating work and rest, and relaxation techniques help stabilize the condition.
Hypertension requires constant attention, but with a comprehensive approach the condition can be controlled and the risk of dangerous complications reduced.
The information in the article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a guide to self-diagnosis and treatment. If you experience symptoms of the disease, you should consult a doctor.
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