Understanding High & Low Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks

Blood pressure is one of the most vital indicators that signals many underlying conditions in the human body. Elevated or low blood pressure can significantly indicate underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, kidney function, liver diseases, and many more. Moreover, high or low blood pressure is directly linked to your heart health and raises the risk of conditions like stroke, heart attacks, heart failure, and other cardiovascular issues. 

In today’s world, low or high blood pressure has become a very common health condition around the world, specifically in India. 1 out of every 3 Indians suffers from disturbed blood pressure problems and is on medication to manage this. This indicates why low and high blood pressure has become an epidemic for people in India. 

What Is High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)?

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is elevated blood pressure in veins and arteries. Blood pressure measured above 120/80 is considered hypertension, which is a common symptom of the heart working excessively to maintain a rich supply of oxygen-rich blood to the entire body. Narrowed and blocked arteries can cause hypertension and are directly associated with coronary heart disease.

Common Causes of High Blood Pressure:- 

• Excess salt, unhealthy diet, and processed foods

• Obesity and lack of physical activity

• Family history and aging

• Stress, smoking, and alcohol consumption

• Chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disorders

Symptoms of Hypertension:- 

Symptoms may include excessive sweating, shaky hands, numbness, unusual anger, anxiety and dizziness. 

Risks of Untreated Hypertension:- 

• Heart attack and heart failure

• Stroke due to damaged brain vessels

• Kidney disease

• Vision loss

• Aneurysms

What Is Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)?

Hypotension is just the reverse of hypertension. In Hypotension blood pressure remains low below 120/ 80 or just suddenly drops below this mark. This is also a very serious condition that indicates deficiencies, heart malfunctioning and weak heart and many more underlying conditions. 

Causes of Low Blood Pressure:- 

• Dehydration and blood loss

• Nutritional deficiencies (B12, folate, iron)

• Hormonal imbalances

• Heart problems such as weak heart muscles & valves malfunctioning 

• Certain medications like diuretics or antidepressants

Symptoms of Hypotension:- 

Common symptoms of low blood pressure or hypotension are blurred vision, feeling dull or low, dizziness, unusual laziness, chills and fainting in severe cases.  

Risks of Low Blood Pressure:- 

• Reduced blood flow to the brain and organs

• Confusion and difficulty concentrating

• Fainting and fall-related injuries

• Organ failure in extreme drops

Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure

Blood Pressure management is not rocket science, changing in eating habits, lifestyle changes, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake, regularly exercising and weight management can significantly help in managing blood pressure. 

To manage low BP: Stay hydrated, eat small frequent meals, avoid sudden standing, and increase salt only if advised by your doctor.

To manage high BP: Take medicine every day at the same time, get mild exercise, walk, lead a stress-free life, quit smoking, and limit caffeine intake.

Note:- Hyper and hypotension can be fatal if ignored and left untreated for a long time. Both the conditions are very serious and can permanently damage kidney, heart and other organs. Consult a doctor and take medication as per prescription. 

Conclusion

As we mentioned above, low and high BP are very common health conditions, making millions suffer in India. This unfortunate scenario also presents an ultimate opportunity for pharma business seekers, as they can start a PCD Pharma Franchise with blood pressure medicines. This can guarantee success in business and offer a chance to support the healthcare sector in India.