Hypertension

What is hypertension?

Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure, a condition where the force of blood against the walls of your blood vessels is too high. This makes your heart work harder than normal and increases the risk of serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

In Africa, hypertension is becoming a silent killer. In Ghana alone, about 30% of adults have hypertension, and many do not even know they have it! In Nigeria, an estimated 76.2 million people have high blood pressure. Across the continent, millions are affected, and because it often has no symptoms, many people only discover they have hypertension when they suffer a stroke or heart attack.

Common myths about hypertension?

There are many misconceptions about high blood pressure. Let’s clear some of them up:

  • “Hypertension only affects the elderly.” False! Young people, even in their 30s, can develop hypertension.
  • “If I feel fine, I don’t have high blood pressure.” False! Hypertension usually has no symptoms until it becomes severe.
  • “Eating a lot of salt won’t affect my blood pressure.” False! Eating too much salt (found in processed foods, stock cubes, and local seasonings like kanwe) is a major cause of hypertension.
  • “Hypertension can be cured completely.” Not always! Some types can be managed, but most people will need lifelong care to stay healthy.

How is blood pressure measured?

Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:

  • The top number (systolic pressure): This measures the pressure when your heart pumps blood.
  • The bottom number (diastolic pressure): This measures the pressure when your heart is at rest.

Your blood pressure level falls into one of these categories:

  • Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
  • Elevated: 120-129 for systolic and less than 80 for diastolic

Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic

Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+ systolic or 90+ diastolic

Hypertensive Emergency: Above 180/120 (dangerously high and requires immediate medical attention!)

Types of hypertension?

Primary hypertension (essential hypertension)

This is the most common type. It develops over time and has no specific cause but is linked to:

  • Genetics: If your parents had hypertension, you are more likely to develop it.
  • Aging: People over 65 years are at higher risk.
  • Race: Africans and people of African descent have a higher risk of developing hypertension.
  • Obesity: Being overweight increases your risk significantly.
  • Alcohol and smoking: Excessive drinking and smoking raise blood pressure.
  • Lack of exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to high blood pressure.
  • Diabetes and other conditions: Hypertension is common in people with diabetes.

Secondary hypertension

This type is caused by an underlying condition and is more common in young people. It can be due to:

  • Kidney problems
  • Hormonal disorders
  • Side effects of medications (including birth control pills and painkillers)
  • Excessive herbal medicines and local concoctions
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Obstructive sleep apnea

Resistant Hypertension

This is when high blood pressure does not respond to normal medications and requires multiple drugs to control.

Malignant hypertension (hypertensive emergency)

This is an extreme rise in blood pressure (above 180/120) that can damage organs like the heart, kidneys, and brain. Symptoms include:

  • Severe headaches
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness

This is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate hospital care.

White coat hypertension

Some people only have high blood pressure when they visit the doctor due to stress or anxiety. However, this can still be a warning sign.

How is hypertension treated?

If you have high blood pressure, lifestyle changes and medication can help you manageit. Common treatments include:

  • Healthy eating: Reduce salt, avoid processed foods, and eat more fruits and vegetables.
  • Regular exercise: At least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week.
  • Weight control: Losing even 5 kg can make a big difference!
  • Limiting alcohol and smoking: Both increase blood pressure.
  • Managing stress: Relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation can help.

Medications for hypertension?

Doctors may prescribe one or more of these medicines:

  • Beta-blockers: Slows down your heart rate and reduces blood pressure.
  • Diuretics (water pills): Helps your body get rid of excess salt and water.
  • ACE inhibitors: Helps blood vessels relax and widen.
  • Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs): Prevents blood vessels from tightening.

Most hypertension medications are affordable and available in government hospitals and pharmacies across Africa. Some countries even provide free or low-cost blood pressure medicines.

How to prevent hypertension?

Prevention is better than cure! Follow these steps to protect yourself:

  • Check your blood pressure regularly: You can do this at a clinic, pharmacy, or even at home with a BP monitor.
  • Eat less salt: Cut down on stock cubes, processed foods, and salty snacks.
  • Stay active: Walk, dance, or exercise daily.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight increases your risk.
  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol: These damage your heart and raise blood pressure.
  • Reduce stress: Find healthy ways to relax and avoid unnecessary worries.

Final words: Take your health seriously!

Hypertension is not just an illness for “old people.” It affects millions of Africans and can lead to serious complications if ignored. But the good news is you can control it. By checking your blood pressure, eating well, exercising, and following medical advice, you can live a long and healthy life.