Understanding and Managing Arterial Hypertension: Causes, Risks, and Treatment

Arterial hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic condition marked by persistently high pressure in the arteries. Blood pressure is recorded in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and expressed as two figures: systolic pressure (the force when the heart beats) and diastolic pressure (the force when the heart rests between beats). A typical, healthy reading is around 120/80 mmHg. Arterial hypertension is generally diagnosed when blood pressure consistently reads above 130/80 mmHg, with severe hypertension being above 180/120 mmHg.

Several factors contribute to arterial hypertension. Genetics play a significant role, as family history can predispose individuals to high blood pressure. Age also increases the likelihood, as arteries naturally lose elasticity over time. Lifestyle factors, such as obesity, physical inactivity, poor diet, high sodium intake, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress, are also major contributors. Additionally, certain health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and sleep apnea increase susceptibility to high blood pressure. In recent years, studies have also highlighted the potential effects of environmental pollutants and chronic inflammation on hypertension risk.

Untreated arterial hypertension poses severe health risks. It is often termed a "silent killer" because many individuals exhibit no symptoms until major complications arise. These can include heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss. Hypertension also accelerates atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which further increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hypertension affects over 1.2 billion people globally, and its prevalence is expected to rise due to aging populations and lifestyle changes in developing regions.

Management of arterial hypertension emphasizes lifestyle changes. Adopting a balanced diet, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which is high in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, can significantly lower blood pressure. Reducing salt intake to below 2,300 mg per day is especially important. Regular physical activity—around 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly—has shown to lower blood pressure effectively. Reducing alcohol intake, avoiding smoking, and managing stress through techniques like mindfulness or therapy are also essential.

When lifestyle adjustments aren’t sufficient, medications such as ACE inhibitors, diuretics, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers are commonly prescribed. These medications work by relaxing blood vessels, reducing fluid retention, or slowing the heart rate, depending on the individual's specific needs. Routine monitoring through home blood pressure devices and regular medical check-ups are key for managing the condition effectively, allowing adjustments in treatment as necessary.
Understanding and Managing Arterial Hypertension: Causes, Risks, and Treatment