CURE OF HYPERTENSION
INTRODUCTION:
Hypertension (HTN) is systolic blood pressure (SBP) values of 130 mm Hg or more and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of more than 80 mm Hg. Hypertension ranks among the most common chronic medical condition characterized by a persistent elevation in arterial pressure. Hypertension contributes to the development of stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and renal failure.
CAUSES:
• An increase in salt intake increases the risk of developing hypertension.
• Researchers believe genes play a role in high blood pressure. If one or more of your close biological family members have high blood pressure, you have an increased risk of developing it, too
• Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can be caused by a combination of factors, both lifestyle and underlying medical conditions.
EPIDEMIOLOGY:
At present, it is estimated that about 1 billion people worldwide have hypertension (>140/90 mmHg), and this number is expected to increase to 1.56 billion by 2025. The prevalence of hypertension varies across regions and country income groups. The WHO African Region has the highest prevalence of hypertension (27%) while the WHO Region of the Americas has the lowest prevalence of hypertension (18%).The number of adults with hypertension increased from 594 million in 1975 to 1.13 billion in 2015, with the increase seen largely in low- and middle-income countries. This increase is due mainly to a rise in hypertension risk factors in those populations.
The National Health Survey estimated that hypertension affects 18% of adults and 33% of adults above 45 years old. In another report, it was shown that 18% of people suffer from hypertension with every third person over the age of 40 becoming increasingly vulnerable to a wide range of diseases. It was also mentioned that only 50% of the people with hypertension were diagnosed and that only half of those diagnosed were ever treated. Thus, only 12.5% of hypertension cases were adequately controlled.
SYMPTOMS:
High blood pressure, often has no noticeable symptoms, hence the nickname "SILENT KILLER”
People with very high blood pressure (usually 180/120 or higher) can experience symptoms including:
• Severe Headaches: A sudden, intense headache that doesn't subside.
• Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest, potentially indicating heart problems.
• Dizziness: A feeling of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or vertigo.
• Difficulty Breathing: Shortness of breath or labored breathing.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up.
• Vision Changes: Blurred vision, double vision, or other visual disturbances.
• Anxiety: Feeling nervous, restless, or agitated.
• Nosebleeds: Sudden and severe nosebleeds.
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF HYERTENSION
The pathogenesis of primary hypertension involves multiple Factors that play an important role in the pathogenesis of hypertension include the aging process, genetics, activation of neuro hormonal systems such as the sympathetic nervous system and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, obesity, gut microbiome, and increased dietary salt intake adrenergic tone, and renal sodium and water handling that interact to produce BP elevations. Although genetics contribute, with rare exceptions this condition is polygenic. An elevated level of uric acid may also be an independent factor of diastolic dysfunction
NUTRITIONAL TREATMENT:
DASH diet is a healthy-eating plan designed to help prevent or treat high blood pressure, also called hypertension. It also may help lower cholesterol linked to heart disease, called low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
High blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol levels are two major risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
Foods in the DASH diet are rich in the minerals potassium, calcium and magnesium. The DASH diet focuses on vegetables, fruits and whole grains. It includes fat-free or low-fat dairy products, fish, poultry, beans and nuts.The diet limits foods that are high in salt, also called sodium. It also limits added sugar and saturated fat, such as in fatty meats and full-fat dairy products
DASH DIET AND SODIUM: The standard DASH diet limits salt to 2,300 milligrams (mg) a day. That amount agrees with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans A lower sodium version of DASH restricts sodium to 1,500 mg a day. You can choose the version of the diet that meets your health needs. If you aren't sure what sodium level is right for you, talk to your health care provider.
DASH DIET: WHAT TO EAT
The DASH diet, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, is a balanced eating plan that helps lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. It focuses on increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy, while limiting sodium, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars. When following DASH, it is important to choose foods that are:
• Rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium, fiber and protein.
• Low in saturated fat.
• Low in salt.
EXAMPLE OF SUCH FOOD WHICH ARE: BENEFICAL FOR CONTROLLING HYPERTENSION:
• NUTS AND SEEDS ALMOND AND PISTACHIO
• VEGETABLES : Leafy vegetables, sweet potatoes
• FRIUTS: Citrus fruits, berries ,banana
• DAIRY: Low fats or fat free dairy products
• OTHERS: Chocolate Contains flavanols, which may boost the production of nitric oxide, relaxing blood vessels. Garlic May help lower blood pressure by widening blood vessels.
How the DASH Diet Helps Lower Blood Pressure:
Reduces Sodium:
High sodium intake can increase blood pressure, and the DASH diet's focus on limiting sodium helps to lower it.
Increases Nutrient Intake:
The diet encourages foods rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which play a role in regulating blood pressure.
Promotes Weight Management:
By emphasizing whole foods and limiting unhealthy options, the DASH diet can contribute to weight management, which can also help lower blood pressure.
Reduces Stress:
A healthy eating pattern, like the DASH diet, can help reduce stress, which can also contribute to lower blood pressure.
Note: The DASH diet is a flexible eating plan, and individuals can adjust their intake to meet their specific calorie needs and preferences. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have any existing health conditions.
Author: Haya Irfan
Instructor: Muhammad Noman khan
Institute : Hamdard University