WHO 1999 reports that 1 out of every 3 deaths in India is due to heart diseases. Amongst several risk factors associated with this growing menace, hypertension or high blood pressure has been established as a key risk factor for heart diseases.
What
is Hypertension?
 Hypertension is synonymous with high blood pressure. Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the walls of the arteries, which are the conduits that carry blood from the heart to other parts of the body.
In some people, the blood cannot flow easily through these arteries. For example, if the arteries are narrowed for some reason, the pressure will go up to keep the blood flowing. This is high blood pressure.
If you have it, you are not alone. Hypertension is a very common condition; however, if left untreated, it can become serious.
What are the symptoms of Hypertension?
If you have hypertension, chances are that you may not have any symptoms at all. Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because most people who have it do not feel sick, but if left uncontrolled, it can lead to a heart attack or kidney disease. This is why it is so important to treat hypertension even if you feel fine. Many people can keep their hypertension under control by making some changes in their daily activities, such as increasing exercise and eating a healthier diet. Other people may need to take medicine in addition to diet and/or exercise.
How does one cope with Hypertension?
It is important that you become an active partner with your doctor in taking care of yourself. At first, as you adjust your daily habits to the treatment program advised to you, making these changes may seem difficult. After a while, these changes will become routine. So the sooner you begin to make these changes, the better.
Most treatments include a combination of diet, exercise and medication. Here are some important suggestions to consider.
Lose weight
 If you weigh too much, your heart may have to work harder to pump blood. Find out what your ideal weight range should be. This is important to know because as you gain weight, your blood pressure sometimes increases. Losing extra weight is often the best way to lower blood pressure.
If you are overweight, you may have to reduce the amount of food you eat. Once you lose weight, it is important to keep it off.
Medical care
Keep appointments with your doctor and have your blood pressure checked regularly. By doing so, you will know if your blood pressure is under control.
Tell your doctor about the progress you are making or any problems you are having. Further, be sure to ask any questions you may have concerning your diet, exercise, or medication..
Medication
 Most people with high blood pressure need to take medicine. If your doctor sees that diet and exercise
are not enough to control your blood pressure, medication may be prescribed to you.
- Take your medication as directed
- Do not stop taking your medication unless your doctor tells you to
- You should know :
- When to take your medicine.
- How often to take your medicine.
- How much medicine to take .
- What side effects may occur .
- What should you do if you experience side effects.
- Do not be in a hurry to bring down your blood pressure. A slow and
steady fall over two to four weeks is usual and is better than a sudden fall in blood pressure, which could damage your brain or heart.
- Do not be in a hurry to bring down your blood pressure. A slow and steady fall over two to four weeks is usual and is better than a sudden fall in blood pressure, which could damage your brain or heart.
Diet
It is best to limit or avoid certain foods to help control your blood pressure:
-
Limit the amount of salt you eat
- Do not add salt to your food.
- Avoid foods high in salt.
- Read food labels to check the amount of sodium(salt) in prepared foods.
- Avoid eating foods high in fat like bacon, egg yolks
- Avoid cooking with excess butter
 Smoking / Alcohol
Cigarette smoking is damaging to the heart and blood vessels. If you
stop smoking, this will help to lower your risk of a heart attack or
stroke over time.
Alcohol can also raise your blood pressure. It is best to avoid or limit drinking.
Exercise
Exercise can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your weight. It will only help, however, if you exercise on a regular basis. Consult your doctor for an exercise plan that is right for you.
Family support
 Let your family know that you have high blood pressure. This is important
because high blood pressure tends to run in the family. It is a good idea for other members of your family, age 20 and older, to get their blood pressure checked as well..
It is also good to let your family know that you have high blood pressure because:
- They can help you follow your doctor's advice
- They can remind you to take your medication
- Everyone can benefit from a low-fat, low-salt diet.
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