It’s known as “the silent killer” for a powerful reason. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is an incredibly common condition that affects millions, often without them knowing until it’s too late.
High blood pressure is a particularly common disease in France. According to Inserm, it affects one in three adults and is the leading preventable cause of stroke.
The condition is also known as “the silent killer” due to the subtle symptoms it involves. But several signs should tip you off.
A “silent killer” with discreet symptoms
High blood pressure is the most common cardiovascular disease, primarily affecting, in 65% of cases, people over 65, and 10% of 18-34 year olds.
The danger of this disease lies in its discretion, meaning a large number of patients don’t know they are affected. Most of the time, it’s only discovered after several years, once an organ has been damaged.
Only one in two people are aware of it and are being treated. It is, therefore, a public health issue, because when left untreated, it is one of the main causes of complications such as myocardial infarctions (heart attacks), Alzheimer’s disease, and strokes.
Certain symptoms are suggestive, states Inserm, and could help detect high blood pressure. The institute specifically mentions dizziness, visual disturbances, headaches, heart palpitations, sweating, difficulty breathing, or nosebleeds.
While these symptoms are common and don’t necessarily imply the existence of this condition, it’s recommended to consult a doctor for a diagnosis.
A disease linked to age, but not exclusively
High blood pressure is characterised by an abnormal increase in the pressure of blood on the artery walls, meaning outside the values of 10 and 14 for maximum pressure, and 6 and 8 for minimum pressure, when measured with a blood pressure monitor.
Generally, blood pressure increases with age due to the loss of artery elasticity, making time a risk factor.
However, lifestyle or certain habits can also influence the onset of the disease, such as being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, or high alcohol or tobacco consumption.
This article was originally published by LR Media for marieclaire.fr on the Marie Claire France website.
Translated and syndicated for Marie Claire Nigeria by Tobi Afolabi.
