High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): The Silent Threat You Shouldn’t Ignore
Do you believe that high blood pressure only affects those under mental stress? Or that if you have no symptoms, you can stop taking your medication? Perhaps you worry that BP medicines might damage your kidneys? If yes, then this article is for you.
Dr. Mardav Dharmadhikari, Consultant Physician at Sahyadri Hospital, shares key insights into hypertension—an often misunderstood yet extremely common condition affecting millions globally.
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure (BP) is the force exerted by your blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around the body. It's measured in two numbers:
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Systolic Pressure (top number): The pressure when your heart beats.
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Diastolic Pressure (bottom number): The pressure when your heart rests between beats.
For example, a reading of 120/80 mmHg is considered normal. However, these numbers may fluctuate throughout the day due to physical activity, stress, or rest.
When is Blood Pressure Considered High?
According to the latest medical guidelines:
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A consistent systolic reading of 140 mmHg or above or
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A diastolic reading of 90 mmHg or more
may indicate hypertension, especially if observed over multiple readings.
Readings between 120–139 (systolic) may be a warning sign of prehypertension, requiring close monitoring and lifestyle changes.
Who Needs Blood Pressure Medication?
If your BP regularly stays above 140/90 mmHg, your doctor may recommend medication. However, those with borderline readings should first consider lifestyle modifications, such as:
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Reducing salt intake
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Maintaining a healthy weight
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Exercising regularly
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Managing stress and anxiety
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Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
If these changes fail to control BP, medication may become necessary.
How Do Doctors Choose BP Medications?
There are over 20 different types of blood pressure medications, divided into 5–6 main categories. Your doctor will tailor your treatment based on:
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Age and gender
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Pregnancy status
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Presence of other conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or kidney issues
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Cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular risk
The goal is to not only lower your BP but also protect vital organs like the heart, brain, and kidneys.
Are There Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?
Surprisingly, high BP often has no symptoms, which is why it’s called the “Silent Killer.”
In most cases, people only realize they have hypertension after a major event like a stroke, heart attack, or vision loss. Regular check-ups are the only reliable way to detect it early.
Can You Stop Taking BP Medications?
Possibly—but only under medical supervision.
If you:
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Reach your ideal body weight
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Maintain a balanced, low-sodium diet
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Exercise regularly
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Manage stress effectively
...your doctor may gradually reduce your dosage and, in some cases, discontinue medications. However, never stop or alter your medication without consulting your physician.
Do BP Medications Harm the Kidneys?
This is a common myth.
In reality, uncontrolled high BP can cause significant kidney damage. The right medication, when prescribed based on your health condition, actually protects your kidneys and prevents long-term complications.
What Happens If High BP Is Left Untreated?
Uncontrolled hypertension can cause:
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Stroke due to ruptured brain arteries
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Heart attacks and heart failure
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Retinal damage, leading to vision problems
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Kidney failure
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Overall organ damage
These complications can be life-threatening and irreversible if not managed in time.
Key Takeaways for Managing Hypertension
✅ Monitor your BP regularly
✅ Don't ignore slightly high readings
✅ Take medications as prescribed—don’t self-adjust
✅ Maintain a healthy weight and reduce salt intake
✅ Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and stress
✅ Get regular medical check-ups
Final Thoughts
High blood pressure may be silent, but its effects are loud and dangerous. With proper awareness, timely action, and consistent medical care, hypertension is manageable and, in some cases, even reversible.
If you have any doubts or questions about blood pressure, feel free to leave a comment below. Our team of medical experts is here to help!
Tags: #Hypertension #BloodPressure #HeartHealth #KidneyCare #HealthyLifestyle #Wellness