High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it can cause serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke, without any symptoms. Hypertension causes the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, leading to a variety of health issues.
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Hypertension puts extra strain on the blood vessels, making them more prone to damage. Over time, this can lead to hardening or narrowing of the arteries, which can reduce blood flow to the heart and other organs. Hypertension can also weaken the heart muscle, making it less able to pump blood efficiently.
High blood pressure can also damage the kidneys, leading to kidney failure. Hypertension can also cause blood vessels in the eyes to burst, leading to vision loss. In addition, high blood pressure can cause damage to the brain, leading to confusion, memory loss, and other cognitive problems.
The good news is that high blood pressure can often be managed through lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. Medications, such as diuretics and ACE inhibitors, can also be used to help lower blood pressure. If left untreated, however, hypertension can lead to serious health problems, making it a silent killer.