TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Hypertension generally do not show any symptoms until the blood pressure becomes too high and can be life threatening. This is why hypertension is dubbed the silent killer.
There are many risk factors that cause hypertension. Age and heredity are two factors that cause hypertension that cannot be avoided. But other factors can still be prevented. Losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating healthy foods, reducing stress, reducing sodium to taking medication prescribed by a doctor are some ways that can be done to manage and treat high blood pressure.
Just because you are asymptomatic, doesn’t mean your blood pressure is fine. That is why it is very important to regularly check blood pressure, either independently or to the doctor. If high blood pressure is not controlled immediately, several things can happen to the body Live Strong.
Hardening of blood vessels
When hypertension is not treated, damage will occur in the body, which begins with hardening of the blood vessels. The continuous pressure of the blood against the artery walls can erode the existing lining. As a result, the arteries become less elastic and it becomes difficult for blood to pass through them. In fact, blood vessels must be flexible so that they can contract and relax according to the body’s needs. When arteries tighten, blood pressure becomes more difficult to regulate and the body raises it as it tries to maintain blood flow to major organs.
Heart and brain damage
Corrosion of the blood vessels eventually causes organ damage due to not getting enough blood and oxygen. The brain, heart, and kidneys are the organs most sensitive to blood pressure. If hypertension is not treated, diseases such as heart attacks, coronary arteries, and strokes can occur.
Kidney failure
In addition to the brain and heart, the kidneys are also organs that are sensitive to blood pressure. The kidneys depend on regular blood pressure to ensure they filter blood properly. If blood pressure irregular, you could end up with kidney failure.
Cognitive decline
Hypertension can also cause memory and thinking problems associated with mild cognitive impairment and even dementia. According to the Mayo Clinic, this occurs because damaged blood vessels make it difficult for blood to reach the brain.
Other effects
The effects of hypertension can also extend to the blood vessels in the eye, causing blurred vision to blindness. Some men and women also experience sexual dysfunction because not enough blood flows to the penis and vaginal area.
Also read: Beware the Number of Hypertension Patients is Increasing, Check Prevention
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