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Focus Healthcare: Why is High Blood Pressure Dangerous? Understanding the Risks
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often called a "silent killer" because it can go unnoticed for years, silently causing damage to your body. Many people with high blood pressure feel fine, yet inside, their health may be at risk. Let’s break down why high blood pressure is dangerous and what you can do to protect your health.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force your blood exerts on the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. It is given as 2 numbers - systolic / diastolic - ie 120/80 - Systolic pressure is the force in your arteries when your heart beats, while diastolic pressure is the force when your heart rests between beats. When the pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels. Optimal is < 120/80. Hypertension is >135 systolic or >85 diastolic
Why is it Dangerous?
High blood pressure can lead to serious health problems.
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Heart Disease and Heart Failure High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease. It causes blockage in the arteries and also failure of the heart muscle over time.
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Stroke If left unchecked, high blood pressure can weaken blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of a stroke. A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. It can lead to long-term disability or even be fatal.
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Kidney Damage Your kidneys filter waste from the blood, and they rely on healthy blood vessels to do their job. High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to kidney disease or even kidney failure, which may require dialysis or a transplant.
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Vision Loss High blood pressure can damage the tiny blood vessels in your eyes, causing blurred vision or even complete vision loss.
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Aneurysms Over time, high blood pressure can cause blood vessels to weaken and bulge, forming aneurysms. If an aneurysm bursts, it can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding.
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Erectile dysfunction High blood pressure can also lead to damage to the penile arteries.
What Can You Do?
The good news is that high blood pressure can often be managed or even prevented through lifestyle changes and medication. Here are a few key steps to lower your blood pressure and protect your health:
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Stay Active: Regular exercise strengthens your heart and helps control your blood pressure.
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Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low in salt can lower your blood pressure. The "DASH" diet has been shown to lower BP.
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Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: These habits can raise your blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease.
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Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Regular checks allow you to track your progress and catch any changes early.
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Reduce body weight: 10kg loss can equal 10-20mmHg drop in systolic BP.
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Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Finding ways to relax, such as through meditation or exercise, can help.
When to Seek Help
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or have concerns about your heart health, speak to a healthcare professional. Early detection and proper management are key to preventing complications.
Conclusion
High blood pressure is dangerous because it affects your heart, brain, kidneys, and more. By taking control of your health through lifestyle changes, medication and regular monitoring, you can reduce your risk and live a healthier, longer life. Don't ignore it—act now to protect your future.
By Dr Michael MacDonald, Senior Consultant Cardiologist, Harley Street Heart & Vascular Centre
