Hypertension: Steps to a Healthier Heart

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious but common disorder in which the blood pressure against the walls of arteries is constantly too high. Nicknamed the "silent killer," hypertension usually does not have any noticeable symptoms but can lead to life-threatening complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure if left untreated. Risk factors are age, family history, obesity, high salt intake, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is crucial in early detection since lifestyle change, and medication can cure hypertension and reduce the risk of permanent injury. 
 
Management of hypertension is generally a mixture of medication such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics and lifestyle change. Reduction of proportions, consumption of a heart-healthy diet (e.g., more vegetable/greens), daily exercise, maintenance at a healthy weight, and reduction of alcohol may lower blood pressure significantly. Furthermore, stress-reducing methods such as meditation and proper sleep also play a supporting role. Pharmacists can contribute through proper medication adherence, monitoring of side effects, and dietary and supplement counseling on an individual level. With proper management, people with hypertension are able to protect their cardiovascular system and overall well-being.