Introduction

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The American Heart Association (AHA) classifies it as a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other serious health complications. Early management of high blood pressure is essential to minimize long-term health risks. This article will discuss important habits to adopt early in life, including dietary changes, medications, and lifestyle modifications, as well as explore the risks and complications of uncontrolled hypertension.

1. Dietary Changes

A healthy diet is a cornerstone of managing high blood pressure. It is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). 

Examples of DASH-friendly foods include:

• Leafy greens, such as spinach and kale

• Berries, like blueberries and strawberries

• Oats, quinoa, and other whole grains

• Low-fat dairy products, such as yogurt and skim milk

1. Medications

The use of medications is often necessary to control high blood pressure, especially in cases where lifestyle changes alone are insufficient. Common classes of medications used to treat hypertension include:

• Diuretics

• ACE inhibitors

• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)

• Calcium channel blockers

Follow your doctor's instructions on how to use and how much of a medication, and talk to him or her about any side effects or worries (JAMA, 2021). 

Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to diet and medicine, living a healthy life can help lower blood pressure by a lot. Examples include:

• Regular physical activity: The AHA recommends at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise with a moderate intensity or 75 minutes of aerobic exercise with a vigorous intensity per week. 

• Stress management: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, can help lower blood pressure.

• Keeping a healthy weight is important because being overweight is a major risk factor for high blood pressure. 

• Quit smoking and drink less alcohol. Both smoking and drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure. 

Risks Associated with Hypertension

The risks of high blood pressure are multifactorial, including genetics, diet, and environment. Genetics play a significant role, with a family history of hypertension increasing one's likelihood of developing the condition. Dietary factors, such as high sodium intake, and environmental factors, like chronic stress, also contribute to the development of high blood pressure (AHA, 2021).

Non-compliance and Complications

It's common for people with high blood pressure to not follow their treatment plan. This could be because they don't understand, the side effects of their medicine, or the cost. However, uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to severe complications, including:

• Heart disease: Hypertension can cause coronary artery disease, heart failure, and a heart attack.

• Stroke: High blood pressure can cause blood vessels in the brain to rupture or become blocked.

• Kidney damage: Hypertension can lead to kidney scarring and ultimately kidney failure.

• Vision loss: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision impairment or blindness.

Conclusion

For managing high blood pressure and reducing long-term health risks, it's important to start healthy habits early, like changing your diet, taking your medicine as prescribed, and making other changes to your daily routine. By understanding the risks and complications associated with uncontrolled hypertension, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their heart and overall health.

References

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Flávio, D., and K. Whelton. "High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease Paul. Hypertension 75 No. 2, 2020.

Carlene, MM, et al. Comparative Quantification of Health Risks Global and Regional Burden of Disease Attributable to Selected Major Risk Factors. Geneva World Health Organization, 2004.