Definition:
Hypertension, also known as high or raised blood pressure, is a condition in which the
blood vessels have persistently raised pressure. Blood is carried from the heart to all parts
of the body in the vessels. Each time the heart beats, it pumps blood into the vessels.
Blood pressure is written as two numbers.
The first (systolic) number represents the pressure in blood vessels when the heart
contracts or beats.
The second (diastolic) number represents the pressure in the vessels when the heart
rests between beats.
Hypertension is diagnosed if, when it is measured on two different days, the systolic
blood pressure readings on both days is ≥140 mmHg and/or the diastolic blood
pressure readings on both days is ≥90 mmHg.
Prevalence:
The prevalence of hypertension in Pakistan varies by study, but is generally high:
National Health Survey of Pakistan: 18% of adults in Pakistan have hypertension, and 33% of
adults over 45 have hypertension.
National Diabetes Survey of Pakistan: 46.2% of participants in the 2016–2017 survey had
hypertension.
WHO Stepwise approach to surveillance (STEPS): 37% of participants in Sindh and Punjab had
stage 1 hypertension, and 15.9% had stage 2 hypertension.
Small-scale urban studies: Prevalence of hypertension in urban areas ranges from 15–29%.
Types of hypertension:
There are several types of hypertension, including:
Primary hypertension
Also known as essential hypertension, this is the most common type of high blood pressure and
usually develops over time. It's not related to another medical condition, but may be caused by
environmental or genetic factors.
Secondary hypertension
This type of high blood pressure is caused by another medical condition or certain medications.
It can appear suddenly and cause higher blood pressure than primary hypertension. Secondary
hypertension can be caused by conditions like sleep apnea, kidney disease, or thyroid disease.
Refractory hypertension
This is an extreme form of resistant hypertension, where blood pressure remains uncontrolled
even while taking five or more antihypertensive medications.
Gestational hypertension
This is a pregnancy-related hypertensive disorder.
MNT:
Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for hypertension can help you lower your blood pressure,
reduce your risk of stroke, and improve your overall health.
Dietary changes: Reducing sodium, increasing dietary fiber, and following the DASH diet