Essential hypertension is a condition where blood pressure stays high without a known cause. It increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues if not managed properly.

• Genetics: A family history of high blood pressure increases the likelihood of developing essential hypertension.
• Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and high salt intake are common contributors.
• Age: The risk of high blood pressure increases as people age, particularly after 40.
• Obesity: Carrying excess weight, especially around the abdomen, puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels.
• Chronic Stress: Long-term stress can elevate blood pressure and increase the risk of hypertension.

• Older Adults: As people age, blood vessels naturally lose elasticity, leading to higher blood pressure.
• Family History: Genetics play a role in the likelihood of developing hypertension, especially if close family members have the condition.
• People with a Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity can lead to weight gain and higher blood pressure.
• Individuals with Poor Diets: Diets high in sodium, saturated fats, and low in fruits and vegetables contribute to elevated blood pressure.
• People Under Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress can cause temporary spikes in blood pressure that may eventually become chronic.

• Headaches: Although not always directly linked, high blood pressure can cause occasional, persistent headaches.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy can occur in those with extremely high blood pressure.
• Blurred Vision: Severe high blood pressure may lead to visual disturbances, including blurry vision.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity, can be a sign of high blood pressure affecting heart function.
• Nosebleeds: In rare cases, elevated blood pressure can cause frequent nosebleeds, although this is usually seen in extreme cases.

• Chest Pain: Sudden chest pain can be a warning sign of a heart attack or other cardiovascular issues related to high blood pressure.
• Severe Headaches: A sudden, intense headache accompanied by vision changes or confusion can indicate a hypertensive crisis, which requires emergency care.
• Difficulty Breathing or Shortness of Breath: Sudden or worsening shortness of breath may signal that hypertension is affecting the heart or lungs.
• Severe Dizziness or Fainting: Feeling lightheaded or fainting can indicate dangerously high blood pressure levels.

• Blood Pressure Readings: A blood pressure cuff is used to measure systolic and diastolic pressure. If readings consistently show a pressure of 130/80 mmHg or higher over multiple visits, hypertension is likely present.
• Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring: In some cases, doctors may recommend wearing a portable device that measures blood pressure at regular intervals over 24 hours to monitor fluctuations.
• Blood and Urine Tests: These tests are used to rule out secondary causes of high blood pressure, such as kidney disease or hormone imbalances.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG checks the heart's electrical activity to determine if high blood pressure has affected heart function.

• Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes is a key part of managing essential hypertension. Dietary adjustments, such as reducing salt intake, eating more fruits and vegetables, and limiting processed foods, help lower blood pressure. Regular exercise, like walking, swimming, or cycling, strengthens the heart and improves circulation. Maintaining a healthy weight through weight management reduces strain on the heart and blood vessels, making it easier to control blood pressure. Additionally, stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, can lower stress levels and help keep blood pressure in check.
• Medications: If lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient to control blood pressure, medications may be prescribed to help lower it. Diuretics assist the kidneys in removing excess sodium and water, reducing blood pressure. ACE inhibitors or ARBs work by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Beta-blockers lower the heart rate and reduce the force of heart contractions, further helping to bring down blood pressure.

• Consult a Doctor: If you notice any signs of hypertension, see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Regular monitoring at home with a blood pressure cuff can help track your condition and ensure medications or lifestyle changes are working.
• Follow Your Treatment Plan: Whether it's lifestyle modifications or medication, adhering to the prescribed plan is essential for lowering blood pressure and preventing complications.
• Seek Emergency Care for Hypertensive Crisis: If your blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels (180/120 mmHg or higher) and is accompanied by severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while limiting salt, sugar, and saturated fats, can help lower blood pressure.
• Exercise Regularly: Engaging in physical activity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week helps keep the heart healthy and lowers blood pressure.
• Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking increase the risk of hypertension. Reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoking can significantly improve heart health.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga, can help reduce stress and keep blood pressure stable.
• Regular Monitoring: Regularly checking blood pressure at home or during medical visits helps catch any potential problems early, allowing for prompt intervention.

• Routine Health Screenings: Regular checkups help monitor blood pressure and other health indicators, allowing doctors to address issues early.
• Medications for High-Risk Individuals: For people at high risk of hypertension, such as those with a family history or other chronic conditions, doctors may prescribe medications to prevent blood pressure from rising.