Hypertension Complications: a Health Threat Not to Be Ignored

Hypertension, a common chronic disease, is like a “silent killer” lurking in the body. In many people’s minds, hypertension may only be an increase in blood pressure, but in fact, its potential harm is far more than that. When hypertension is not effectively controlled for a long time, it will cause a series of serious complications, cause damage to multiple organs and systems of the body, seriously affect the quality of life and even endanger life. One of the most common organs affected by hypertension is the heart. Persistent hypertension can increase the burden on the heart and lead to left ventricular hypertrophy. This is like overloading the “pump” of the heart. Over time, the heart muscle becomes hypertrophic and stiff, and the systolic and diastolic functions of the heart gradually decline, which may eventually lead to heart failure. In addition, hypertension is also easy to promote the occurrence and development of coronary atherosclerosis. Coronary arteries are important blood vessels that provide blood and oxygen for the heart. When they are narrowed or blocked, they will cause myocardial ischemia and hypoxia, leading to the occurrence of coronary heart disease. Patients may suffer from angina pectoris, myocardial infarction and other symptoms, which are extremely dangerous conditions. Kidney is also one of the main “targets” of hypertension. The glomerulus in the kidney is like a tiny filter, which is responsible for filtering waste and excess water in the blood and forming urine for excretion. Hypertension can damage the blood vessels of the glomerulus, causing it to gradually harden and lose its function. With the progress of the disease, the filtering function of the kidney will continue to decline, leading to renal insufficiency. If it is not controlled, it may eventually develop into kidney failure, requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. Hypertension is also harmful to cerebrovascular. It can make cerebral vessels fragile and prone to rupture, or promote the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in cerebral arteries, leading to stenosis or even blockage of blood vessels. When a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, it can cause cerebral hemorrhage, an extremely dangerous disease that often leads to severe disability and even death. When cerebral vessels are blocked, cerebral infarction, commonly known as “stroke”, may occur in patients with hemiplegia, aphasia, blindness and other sequelae, which bring heavy burden to individuals and families. Hypertension is also closely related to eye diseases. It can damage the small blood vessels of the retina, leading to retinal arteriosclerosis, hemorrhage, exudation and other pathological changes. Patients may suffer from visual impairment, blurred vision, dark shadows in front of their eyes and other symptoms, which may lead to blindness if not treated in time. In addition to the above organ systems, hypertension also increases the risk of peripheral artery disease, such as carotid artery stenosis, lower extremity atherosclerosis and so on. This can lead to limb ischemia, pain, and even ulcers and gangrene. So, how can we detect and prevent hypertension complications early? Regular blood pressure measurement is the key. For adults, especially those with family history of hypertension, obesity, long-term smoking and drinking, mental stress and other high-risk groups, regular blood pressure measurement is recommended. Once blood pressure is found to be elevated, they should seek medical treatment in time and take effective treatment measures to control blood pressure within the ideal range. For patients who have been diagnosed with hypertension, active treatment and good lifestyle intervention are essential. In terms of treatment, doctors will formulate individualized treatment plans according to the specific conditions of patients, usually including drug treatment and non-drug treatment. Drug treatment should strictly follow the medical supervision, take medicine on time and in accordance with the dosage, and should not increase or decrease the dosage or stop taking medicine without authorization. Commonly used antihypertensive drugs include angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, beta blockers and so on. Non-drug treatment mainly includes lifestyle improvement. First of all, we should reduce the intake of sodium salt, not more than 6 grams per day. Increase potassium intake and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits. Secondly, to control weight, through reasonable diet and moderate exercise, the body mass index (BMI) should be controlled between 18.5 and 23.9 kg/m2, with waist circumference less than 90 cm for men and 85 cm for women. Moderate exercise is also very important. It is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise every week, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, etc., combined with some strength training. In addition, we should quit smoking and limit alcohol, avoid long-term mental tension and anxiety, and maintain a good state of mind and adequate sleep. For patients with hypertension, regular examinations are also essential. In addition to blood pressure measurement, electrocardiogram, cardiac ultrasound, renal function, urine routine and fundus examination should be checked regularly in order to detect potential complications early and treat them in time. In conclusion, hypertensive comorbidity is a serious health threat, but it can be effectively prevented and controlled through early diagnosis, active treatment and good lifestyle intervention. Each of us should pay attention to the prevention and treatment of hypertension, care for their health, and lay a solid foundation for a better life.