High blood pressure is a problem that requires serious attention because it puts stress on the heart and arteries, even if the patient does not experience disturbing symptoms. That added stress can increase an individual’s chances of developing a heart attack or stroke.
Over time, problems in the blood vessels can reduce blood flow. Since every tissue and organ in the body needs blood to work properly, it means the organs in the body can also be affected. Therefore, you need to regularly check your blood pressure and deal with it immediately if you have high blood pressure, even though you don’t feel any symptoms.
Here are some negative effects of blood pressure that is too high for the body, summarized from the page: WebMD and Healthline.
1. Arteries
Generally, the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body have a smooth inner lining. These blood vessels are strong and flexible enough to propel blood throughout the body. However, high blood pressure alters this condition. The extra force of the blood can damage the cells in the inner walls of the arteries.
If this pressure does not subside, it can trigger a tear in the layer so that it is no longer smooth. That’s where bits of fat get trapped and build up causing plaque. Blood cannot move freely around this blockage, which can even clog arteries. These deposits can also stiffen the walls of blood vessels, making it harder for blood to flow. Furthermore, this damage can cause the walls of the arteries to stretch and protrude like balloons. The lump, called an aneurysm, can rupture and bleed.
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2. Nervous system
brain illustration (unsplash.com/Robina Weermeijer)–
High blood pressure may play a role in causing dementia and cognitive decline in the future. This is because decreased blood flow to the brain causes memory and thinking problems. As a result, individuals may have difficulty remembering or understanding things, or lose focus during conversations.
When a larger blockage of blood to the brain occurs, it is called a stroke. If that part of the brain does not receive oxygen from the blood, the cells will begin to die. The severity of the stroke and how quickly the individual receives treatment greatly affects survival.
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3. Kidneys
kidney illustration (unsplash.com/Robina Weermeijer)–
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The kidneys are responsible for removing waste from the blood, regulating blood volume and pressure, and filtering waste through urine. However, to do their job properly, the kidneys need healthy blood vessels.
High blood pressure may damage the larger blood vessels leading to the kidneys and smaller blood vessels within the kidneys. If left untreated, this damage prevents the kidneys from doing their job properly. At this stage, it can be called a kidney problem and can lead to kidney failure. Individuals diagnosed with kidney failure no longer have the ability to remove waste from the body, thus requiring dialysis or a transplant.
Also Read: 5 Facts about White Coat Syndrome, Blood Pressure Rises when Seeing a Doctor
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4. Eyes
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High blood pressure that continues for a long time can suppress blood flow and damage the small blood vessels in the eye. Eventually, fluid can build up under the retina, the part of the eye where images focus.
As a result, it can cause problems, such as blurred vision, distortion, and vision loss. Patients can also lose vision when the optic nerve doesn’t get enough blood.
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5. Respiratory system
deep breathing illustration (pexels.com/Andrea Piacquadio)–
Arteries in the lungs can be damaged and blocked due to high blood pressure. When an artery that carries blood to the lungs is blocked, it is called a pulmonary embolism. This is a very serious condition and requires immediate medical attention.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes loud snoring and breathing problems at night. Individuals with sleep apnea often feel less refreshed when they wake up in the morning. This condition is likely related to high blood pressure, as many people diagnosed with sleep apnea also have high blood pressure.
Hypertension causes damage slowly over a long period of time in various organs of the body. That is why it is important to practice healthy habits to maintain blood pressure. In addition, you should also have your blood pressure checked regularly to help manage blood pressure so it doesn’t get worse and trigger complications.
Also Read: Prevent Hypertension, Get To Know The Following 5 Blood Pressure Categories Tekanan
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