High blood pressure – an often underestimated health risk

Hypertension is a disease of civilization. More and more people in Germany are suffering from high blood pressure, more than 20% of those over 40 are affected. High blood pressure, medically known as "hypertension“, carries many dangers. Permanently high blood pressure can have a particularly damaging effect on the kidneys, heart and brain.

High blood pressure is a disease of civilization. More and more people in Germany are suffering from high blood pressure, more than 20% of people over 40 are affected in this country. High blood pressure, medically known as “hypertension”, poses many risks. Permanently high blood pressure can have a particularly damaging effect on the kidneys, heart and brain. A disorder of the kidney function, heart failure and even Heart attack as well as a Stroke or the promotion of Alzheimer's dementia are possible consequences.

Regular check-ups protect against high blood pressure

Too much pressure causes sleep disorders and headaches 

High blood pressure is often recognized too late or not perceived as an obvious problem at all. This is because those affected usually do not attribute possible effects to high blood pressure. "The symptoms of hypertension are often untypical. For example, difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep, as well as slight excitability and inner restlessness can be signs of high blood pressure. Tinnitus or noises in the ears are also possible warning signs," explains Dr. Reinhold Lunow, internist and medical director of the Bornheim practice clinic.

If you experience increased headaches or dizziness when you are under mental or physical stress, this can also indicate high blood pressure. In women around 50, symptoms of high blood pressure can be similar to menopausal symptoms. These include hot flushes and mood swings. In middle-aged men, untreated high blood pressure can result in impotence problems.

Hypertension is easily treatable

“When your body shows such warning signs, you should consult an internist to clarify the symptoms. But blood pressure should be checked regularly even without alarm signals. as part of a comprehensive health check controlled. The earlier hypertension is treated, the less damage it can cause. Nowadays, there are a variety of extremely effective medications for lowering blood pressure and thus reducing potential health consequences," recommends Dr. Lunow.

In overweight hypertensive patients, it is also important to Nutrition Because too many pounds also put a lot of strain on the circulatory system. Likewise, patients with pre-existing conditions such as Diabetes High blood pressure dramatically increases the risk of a heart attack. Good blood pressure control is urgently recommended.

Do not stop taking medication on your own 

It can take several days to adjust blood pressure with medication. Some patients initially struggle with dizziness. “The body is used to high blood pressure and needs to adjust. Patients should therefore be patient and not take the medication without consulting their doctor. Doctor If you are unsure, you should always contact your doctor,” says the medical director of the practice clinic Bornheim.

According to the German Hypertension League (DHL), optimal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure occurs when the so-called upper systolic pressure in the arteries is abnormally increased to over 140 mmHg when the heart contracts and the lower diastolic value in the relaxation phase, i.e. between two heartbeats, is over 90 mmHg.

Provided by: www.internisten-im-netz.de / stock.adobe.com