Hypertension is a very common chronic condition. In Hong Kong, it is estimated that about 27% of the population aged 15 or above may have it. Hypertension is defined as a persistent systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher , or a persistent diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher .
The causes of hypertension can be broadly divided into two categories: "primary hypertension" and "secondary hypertension." About 90% of patients have "primary hypertension," the cause of which is unknown, but may be related to genetic factors and unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as excessive salt intake, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, insufficient sleep, excessive stress, and aging. The remaining 10% are "secondary hypertension," which is caused by other conditions such as kidney disease, thyroid disease, or endocrine disorders.
How can I determine if I have high blood pressure ?
Because hypertension often presents with no obvious symptoms in its early stages, many people only discover this "silent" disease after complications arise. Therefore, it is recommended that adults aged 18 or older have their blood pressure checked at least every two years. If hypertension is not treated promptly or properly controlled, it can lead to serious complications such as coronary heart disease, stroke, vascular disease, and kidney failure. Since the first symptoms may be stroke or heart attack, hypertension is also known as the "silent killer."
According to the Department of Health guidelines, the following are the classifications of blood pressure levels in adults and recommended actions:
Normal: Systolic blood pressure <120 , diastolic blood pressure <80 . It is recommended to have another check-up within two years.
• Pre-existing hypertension: systolic blood pressure 120 to 139 , diastolic blood pressure 80 to 89. It is recommended to have another check-up within one year.
Hypertension: Systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg , diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg . Consult your family doctor.
Methods for preventing and controlling hypertension
Maintain a healthy weight: Body mass index (BMI) should be maintained between 18.5 and 22.9 . Being overweight can lead to high blood pressure, and weight loss is an effective way to control blood pressure.
Engage in regular physical activity: At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, such as walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, or dancing.
• Balanced diet: Eat more whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products, and reduce the intake of saturated fat and cholesterol.
• Control salt (sodium) intake: Adopt a low-sodium diet, pay attention to food labels, and avoid processed foods. The World Health Organization recommends that healthy adults consume no more than 5 grams of salt per day.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Try to avoid drinking alcohol. If you must drink, women should not exceed one drink per day and men should not exceed two drinks per day.
Quit smoking: Smoking raises blood pressure, and quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Ensure sufficient sleep: Maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a good sleep environment.
Reduce stress: Establish a healthy stress-reduction mechanism through yoga, tai chi, or aromatherapy.
• Monitor blood pressure at home: Closely monitor blood pressure changes through home monitoring and recording, and undergo regular medical check-ups.
Although hypertension has a high prevalence, it can be effectively controlled and the risk of complications reduced if it is detected in time and appropriate preventive and treatment measures are taken.
