7 Myths of Hypertension

Blood pressure naturally rises and falls. For instance, it tends to rise during exercise and fall during prolonged rest. However, if blood pressure is elevated for longer periods of time, it increases the risk of various health conditions. Here we can see some myths about hypertension.

Myth: Blood pressure or Hypertension is not serious #

fact #

• Hypertension certainly can be serious.

• Without treatment, high blood pressure can increase the risk of a range of health issues, includingheart attack, stroke, kidney disease, heart failure, angina, vision loss, sexual dysfunction, and peripheral artery disease.

• Hypertension causes damage in a number of waysTrusted Source.

• For example, over time, increased arterial pressure can cause the vessels to become less elastic.

• In turn, this reduces the amounts of blood and oxygen that reach the heart, thereby damaging the organ.

Myth 2: It is not possible to prevent hypertension #

Fact #

• It is true that there is no cure for hypertension yet, but this does not make it a condition that cannot be prevented or managed.

• Doctors across the world are aiming to prevent hypertension by spreading awareness. Here are commonly accepted recommendations for those who are at risk of developing high blood pressure

• Maintain a healthy weight and live an active lifestyle.

• Hypertension can be kept at bay by exercising regularly (30 min/day, five days a week) and leading a stress-free life.

• A healthy diet high in nutrients and low in salt and saturated fats keeps high blood pressure away.

• Quit smoking and avoid alcohol intake.

Myth 3: Hypertension affects men, and women are rarely affected #

Fact #

Given the stress levels and the sedentary lifestyle of men and women these days, both genders are equally prone to developing hypertension. Post-menopause, women are more at risk of high blood pressure and Cardiac problems.

Myth 4: Hypertension is a geriatric problem #

Fact #

• Hypertension is often mistakenly considered a geriatric problem or a health concern for the elderly.

• More and more research findings are now establishing that hypertension can occur to any individual at any time.

• Young adults living a sedentary life and indulging in unhealthy lifestyles are at a high risk of developing high blood pressure.

Myth 5: Hypertension is Inherited #

Fact #

• It is often believed that hypertension runs in the family.

• It is one of the common misconceptions about hypertension.

• While the genetic propensity to develop hypertension is not in our hands, much can prevent, delay, and even manage the condition.

• Leading a healthy lifestyle is of prime importance.

• A low salt diet, fruits, vegetables, regular exercise, and stress reduction techniques such as yoga and meditation go a long way in preventing and managing hypertension despite genetics.

Myth 6: Hypertension Medicines can be stopped if the blood pressure is normal #

Fact #

• It is also one of the misconceptions about hypertension.

• Doctors usually monitor a patient for a considerable time before diagnosing hypertension.

• They also take the patient’s lifestyle and medical history into account.

• Once the patient is started on the medicines, the blood pressure usually stabilizes and comes back to normal.

• It would be a mistake to stop medicines at this time.

• While the effect of medicines may last over weeks, hypertension again crops up.

• Since its symptoms are silent, it can damage vital organs like the heart, brain, and kidney.

• Skipping medicines can lead to irreversible organ damage.

Myth 7: Wine is good for health; it keeps hypertension at bay #

Fact #

Earlier, people used to consume red wine in small quantities to maintain Cardiac Health. Recent studies, however, reveal that alcohol in any form has no beneficial value and is best avoided.