High Blood Pressure: If Left Untreated, Can Be Life-Threatening

The Chest Disease Institute, under the Department of Medicine, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand emphasizes the importance of monitoring blood pressure regularly, especially if readings exceed standard values. Individuals are encouraged to measure their blood pressure at home using a standard cuff monitor, twice daily (morning and evening), for at least 3-7 days. Calculate the average value, excluding the first day's readings. A blood pressure reading higher than 135/85 mm Hg indicates a risk of developing high blood pressure and potential arteriosclerosis or blockage.

 

Dr. Thanin Vejchapinan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, explains that high blood pressure, defined as readings above 140/90 mm Hg, is a serious condition. High blood pressure can be categorized into two types: primary (essential/primary hypertension) and secondary hypertension.

 

Primary high blood pressure is the most common form and usually affects individuals aged 30 and above. It is often influenced by genetic factors and environmental conditions, such as family history, poor diet, being overweight, and other health issues like diabetes, obesity, kidney degeneration, and sleep apnea. Managing these factors can help reduce blood pressure, but regular medication is often necessary for effective treatment.

 

Secondary hypertension results from specific diseases, conditions, substances, or medications, such as kidney disease, vascular disorders, or endocrine issues. Treating the underlying cause can often normalize blood pressure.

 

Dr. Anek Kanoksin, Director of the Institute of Chest Diseases, adds that high blood pressure often shows no symptoms and is detectable only through measurements. However, very high blood pressure can cause symptoms like headaches, neck tightness, dizziness, blurred vision, and, in severe cases (hypertensive emergency), symptoms like heart failure, chest pain, confusion, severe headaches, vomiting, limb weakness, or acute kidney failure. Immediate treatment with intravenous medication is crucial in these cases to lower blood pressure to a safe level within minutes or hours.

 

For those with blood pressure readings greater than 180/100 mm Hg without other symptoms, it is still necessary to consult a doctor to normalize blood pressure within 2-3 days. Ignoring high blood pressure can lead to severe complications in various body systems, including the cardiovascular system (blood clots, thickened heart muscle walls, coronary artery disease, and heart failure), brain (cerebral atherosclerosis, brain aneurysms, stroke), and eyes (retinal bleeding and swelling affecting vision).

 

Regular health checks, doctor visits for blood pressure management, reducing salt and alcohol intake, weight loss, regular moderate exercise (e.g., brisk walking or jogging for 20-30 minutes at least 5 days a week), quitting smoking, adequate rest, and stress reduction are all crucial for managing high blood pressure effectively.

 

For more detailed information and resources, visit the Department of Medicine, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand.