Reading Comprehension: Causes and Treatment of Hypertension

Develop your reading skills. Please, read the following text about “The Causes and Treatment of Hypertension” and do the comprehension task.
Unveiling the Culprits: Understanding the Causes of Hypertension
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure in the arteries. While high blood pressure typically does not present with symptoms, its long-term presence significantly increases the risk of various serious health conditions, including coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, peripheral vascular disease, vision loss, chronic kidney disease, and dementia.
Types of Hypertension
There are two primary types of high blood pressure:
- Primary (Essential) Hypertension
- Secondary Hypertension
Primary hypertension accounts for approximately 90-95% of all cases and is attributed to nonspecific lifestyle and genetic factors. Contributing factors to primary hypertension include excessive salt intake, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption. On the other hand, secondary hypertension, making up the remaining 5-10% of cases, arises from identifiable underlying causes such as chronic kidney disease, kidney artery narrowing, endocrine disorders, or the use of certain medications like birth control pills.
Causes of Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can be influenced by a variety of factors. Some of the key causes include:
- Unhealthy Diet: Consuming high amounts of sodium (salt), saturated fats, and cholesterol can contribute to hypertension. Additionally, low intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may also play a role.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles and insufficient exercise can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of hypertension.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to elevated blood pressure.
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol in excess can raise blood pressure levels and contribute to hypertension.
- Smoking: Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, can damage blood vessels and raise blood pressure.
- Stress: Chronic stress and anxiety can temporarily elevate blood pressure and, over time, contribute to the development of hypertension.
- Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in determining an individual’s risk of developing hypertension. If parents or siblings have hypertension, the risk may be higher.
- Age: Blood pressure tends to increase with age, primarily due to changes in blood vessel stiffness and hormonal fluctuations.
- Chronic Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, diabetes, and sleep apnea, can increase the risk of hypertension.
- Medications: Some medications, including certain birth control pills, cold remedies, decongestants, and over-the-counter pain relievers, can raise blood pressure levels.
Measuring Hypertension
Blood pressure is typically measured through two readings: systolic and diastolic pressures, representing maximum and minimum pressures, respectively. Normal blood pressure for most adults at rest falls within the range of 100-130 mmHg systolic and 60-80 mmHg diastolic. High blood pressure in adults is diagnosed when resting blood pressure consistently measures at or above 130/90 or 140/90 mmHg. These numbers may vary for children. Globally, hypertension affects between 16 and 37% of the population and is estimated to have contributed to 18% of all deaths in 2010.
Treatment
Managing hypertension involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medications to reduce blood pressure and mitigate associated health risks. Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, reduced salt intake, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet can be effective in controlling blood pressure. When lifestyle adjustments alone are insufficient, medications are prescribed. In many cases, a combination of up to three medications can effectively lower blood pressure in 90% of individuals. Treatment of moderately high blood pressure with medications has been shown to improve life expectancy.
With proper management and intervention, individuals with hypertension can reduce their risk of complications and lead healthier lives.
Source: Wikipedia
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