High Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer You Must Control
1.28 billion hypertensive adults worldwide
Dr. Pascal Moreau
Cardiologist
In simple terms
Hypertension usually causes no symptoms but silently damages the heart, brain, and kidneys. Regular measurement is vital.
Hypertension in figures
High blood pressure (HTA) affects 1.28 billion adults worldwide, nearly half of whom are unaware of it. It is defined by systolic blood pressure at least 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure at least 90 mmHg. It is the most common cardiovascular risk factor and the leading cause of stroke and heart failure.
Why is it dangerous?
HTA progressively damages arteries throughout the body: the heart (heart failure, heart attack), the brain (stroke), the kidneys (kidney failure), the eyes (retinopathy), and leg arteries (arteritis). These complications occur after years of untreated hypertension.
Lifestyle and diet
The DASH diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low in salt and saturated fats) can reduce blood pressure by 8 to 14 mmHg. The goal is not to exceed 5 g of salt per day. Regular physical exercise (30 min/day), moderate alcohol consumption, smoking cessation, and stress management complement lifestyle measures.
Drug treatments
Five classes of antihypertensive drugs are available: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and beta-blockers. Treatment is often a dual therapy from the start. Adherence is crucial: irregularly taken treatment is ineffective. Home blood pressure monitoring is recommended for follow-up.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Risk factor
- Something that makes an illness more likely, such as smoking or family history.
- Blood pressure
- The force of blood pushing against your artery walls. Too high, over years, damages the heart and vessels.
- Cardiovascular
- Related to the heart and blood vessels.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is High Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer You Must Control?
- Hypertension usually causes no symptoms but silently damages the heart, brain, and kidneys. Regular measurement is vital.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of High Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer You Must Control?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for High Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer You Must Control?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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