Risks and Impact of Hypertension on Health
Learn about the dangers of high blood pressure, including its impact on arteries, kidneys, brain, and eyes. Understand risk factors, how to monitor your levels, and the importance of professional medical guidance to manage hypertension effectively.

Risks and Impact of Hypertension on Health
The exact cause of hypertension remains uncertain, but several factors can contribute to its development, including:
• Tobacco use and alcohol consumption
• Family history of high blood pressure
• Excess weight or obesity
• High salt intake
• Stress levels and aging
Hypertension can pose several serious health hazards:
Vascular damage
Elevated blood pressure impacts circulation in the limbs, causing plaque buildup that results in pain, cramps, and numbness. It can also compromise arterial health, necessitating treatment.
Kidney problems
High blood pressure can constrict renal blood vessels, potentially leading to kidney failure.
Cerebral issues
Uncontrolled hypertension may impair brain blood flow or cause clot formation, increasing stroke risk. Regularly reviewing blood pressure levels can help manage these risks.
Vision impairment
Elevated blood pressure can damage ocular blood vessels, possibly resulting in vision loss.
Monitoring your blood pressure with standard charts can provide insights into your health status.
Below is a helpful chart to interpret your readings:
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Systolic 50-90 / Diastolic 35-60
Normal: Systolic less than 120 / Diastolic less than 80
Pre-Hypertension: Systolic 120-139 / Diastolic 80-89
Note: Systolic pressure measures the force during heartbeats, and diastolic measures when the heart relaxes. Tracking these values helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.