What is Hypertension? Symptoms and Treatment Methods

It is projected that by the year 2025, the number of hypertensive patients worldwide will reach 1.5 billion people.

Hypertension is not only a significant health issue worldwide but also its importance increases due to the risk factors it brings for various diseases. Dr. Cansu Ebren, a Cardiologist, emphasized that hypertension is one of the most frequently diagnosed conditions among adult patients and is also among the most common reasons for prescribed medication use. Dr. Ebren highlighted that the aging population, sedentary lifestyle, and increasing prevalence of obesity contribute to the further increase in hypertension prevalence worldwide. She stated, "It is estimated that the number of hypertensive patients worldwide will reach 1.5 billion people by 2025, with an increase of 15-20%."

"Complications related to hypertension claim the lives of 9.4 million people every year."

According to information provided by Dr. Cansu Ebren, a Cardiologist at Yeditepe University Hospitals, during medical examinations of individuals aged 18 and above, a systolic blood pressure reading of 140 mmHg and/or a diastolic blood pressure reading of 90 mmHg is defined as high blood pressure, commonly known as hypertension.

Dr. Cansu Ebren, who reminded us that hypertension is referred to as the "silent killer," stated, "Since the disease can start without any symptoms, it often goes untreated. In such cases, it can cause damage to the vascular bed, heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain." Dr. Ebren emphasized that hypertension-related complications lead to 9.4 million deaths worldwide each year. Furthermore, she mentioned that hypertension is responsible for 45% of deaths related to heart disease and 51% of deaths related to stroke. She also stated that hypertension is one of the most significant risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases, stroke, chronic kidney failure, and atrial fibrillation.

Dr. Ebren emphasized the significance of the aging population, sedentary lifestyle, and the increasing prevalence of obesity, noting that these factors indicate a further increase in the prevalence of hypertension worldwide. She stated, "As mentioned in the European Society of Cardiology's latest published Hypertension Guidelines from 2018, it is estimated that by the year 2025, hypertension will reach 1.5 billion people globally, with an increase of 15-20%."

It is Predicted That the Prevalence of Hypertension Will İncrease.

According to the information provided by Dr. Ebren, hypertension is not only one of the most frequently diagnosed conditions among adult patients but also a leading cause of prescribed medication use. Dr. Ebren mentioned that the prevalence of hypertension in adults is reported to be between 30-45% on average, and this prevalence increases with age. She stated, "In individuals aged 60 and above, this figure exceeds 60%. Although it is less common in women under 50, the frequency of hypertension in women increases rapidly after menopause, surpassing men. By the age of 78, hypertension is encountered in 90% of the general population."

"Young-Onset Hypertension Can Lead to Poor Brain Function in Old Age"

Dr. Cansu Ebren, stating that the effects of hypertension on the elderly can be more devastating compared to young individuals, continued as follows: "While the risk of experiencing a major cardiovascular event within a ten-year period is less than 1% for individuals aged 24-34 with a diagnosis of hypertension, it exceeds 30% for those aged 65 and above. Therefore, in order to age in a healthy manner, it is crucial for individuals to minimize modifiable risk factors from a young age, seek early diagnosis and treatment.

" Dr. Ebren mentioned that a recent study showed that young adults in their 30s with high blood pressure have poorer brain functions, particularly in men, when they reach their 70s. She added, "This group also exhibited a higher incidence of dementia. Therefore, it is important not only for heart health but also for brain health to regularly measure blood pressure and seek consultation with a cardiologist if it is found to be high. Taking care of yourself in your youth is the key to a healthy and successful aging process."

To Prevent Hypertension, These Measures Should Be Taken!

Yeditepe University Hospitals' Cardiology specialist, Dr. Cansu Ebren, emphasizes that quitting smoking is one of the most effective factors in reducing not only hypertension but also overall cardiovascular risk. She listed the following preventive measures for hypertension:

"Individuals should be encouraged to quit tobacco and tobacco products. If a person is overweight, they should aim to reach their ideal body weight or at least lose a minimum of 5-10% of their weight. Attention should be paid to salt intake, and daily sodium consumption should be limited to 2-2.4 grams (5-6 grams of salt). Adopting a Mediterranean-style diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, low-fat foods, whole grains, and includes fish consumption at least twice a week, is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Avoiding a sedentary lifestyle and engaging in regular exercise for at least 30 minutes on at least 5 days a week, based on a person's age and physical condition, is crucial. In terms of the psychological aspect, practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga, or seeking psychotherapeutic support to improve behavioral patterns and better manage stress, undoubtedly contribute to improving quality of life."