Arterial hypertension (HTA) is characterized by a persistent rise in blood pressure. But what are the symptoms? What are the risk factors? How to be diagnosed? France Dimanche presents everything you need to know about the most common chronic pathology in France.
Did you know ? 1 in 3 adults is hypertensive (Source: Santé Publique France)
What are the symptoms ?
Dubbed the “silent killer”, high blood pressure usually does not cause symptoms in patients for many years. Most of the time, it is during other analyses, in particular of the kidneys, the heart or the brain, that doctors detect it. Thus, many people do not know that they have this pathology.
When high blood pressure reaches a high stage, symptoms can sometimes appear, such as headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, vomiting, chest pain, palpitations or drowsiness. Furthermore, it is important to remember that these symptoms also occur in people who do not suffer from high blood pressure.
More information here
How can it be diagnosed?
Doctors make a diagnosis after repeatedly measuring the patient’s blood pressure quickly and painlessly. To measure blood pressure at rest, the patient must not have exercised, smoked or taken caffeine one hour before the appointment.
In more complex cases, a portable battery-powered monitor can be used to measure blood pressure for 24 hours.
What could be the risk factors?
It can be difficult to identify the causes of high blood pressure. Indeed, many factors can be at the origin of this pathology.
Indeed, can contribute to the occurrence of high blood pressure:
- family history
- a kidney disorder
- a hormonal disorder
- physical inactivity
- overweight or obesity
- stress and anxiety
- tobacco, alcohol and stimulants
- age
- sleep apnea
- taking certain medications and the coexistence of other pathologies
- excessive consumption of sodium (salt) and fats.
Thus, we advise you to pay attention to your diet and to practice regular physical activity, but also to stop stimulants. Accompanied by early detection and rigorous monitoring, these tips will allow you to reduce the risks as much as possible.
What can be the complications?
If left undiagnosed, high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart failure, vascular disease, aneurysm, or chronic kidney disease.
I think I have high blood pressure, what should I do?
If you have high blood pressure or think you have it, contact your doctor, who can refer you to a cardiologist. You will be prescribed antihypertensive drugs.
LR