Do you know what hypertension is, at what age it is more common and why it is called the "silent killer"?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition in which the pressure against the walls of the blood vessels is persistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is written as two numbers: systolic pressure - the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, diastolic pressure - the pressure in your arteries when your heart is resting between beats. A normal blood pressure reading is usually around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is generally defined as a blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg or higher.

Hypertension is a common health problem affecting millions of people. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.28 billion people between the ages of 30 and 79 suffer from age-related stress worldwide. In many countries, it is the leading cause of premature death.

Why Is It Called "The Silent Killer"?

Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because even when blood pressure levels are dangerously high, there are usually no symptoms. Many people with hypertension do not know they have it, and it can lead to serious health problems. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, ear bleeding, kidney disease, and vascular damage, making it a leading cause of death and disability worldwide.

There is one thing you should pay attention to: Although hypertension is asymptomatic in many cases, potential symptoms such as severe headaches, chest pain or shortness of breath can be felt.

First aid during high pressure

What to do when the pressure is high? Immediate steps to be taken:

When experiencing symptoms of high blood pressure, stay calm: it is important to stay calm and seated to prevent blood pressure from rising further.

The back of the person sitting should be supported and the feet should be flat on the floor.

Breathing techniques: Deep breathing exercises can be used to reduce stress and lower blood pressure.

If prescribed, the use of high blood pressure medication is mandatory as prescribed by the doctor.

Avoid certain activities: Over-the-counter medications, caffeine, or alcohol can make the condition worse.

What should be the normal pressure?

Arterial pressure, or blood pressure, varies in different age groups, reflecting changes in the cardiovascular system as a person ages. Below are the blood pressure norms for different age groups.

Children and adolescents (0-18 years):

Blood pressure in children varies according to age, gender and height. In general, it is less in young children and gradually increases as they grow. Blood pressure for children and adolescents by age, height and sex

If it is 90-110 mmHg, it is considered normal.

Young adults (ages 19-40):

Blood pressure tends to stabilize in young adults, with normal values ​​similar to those considered optimal for adults.

Normal pressure: Systolic 90-120 mmHg / Diastolic 60-80 mmHg

Middle-aged adults (ages 41-60):

As individuals enter middle age, blood pressure may rise due to factors such as arterial stiffness, weight gain, and lifestyle factors.

Normal pressure: Systolic 110-130 mmHg / Diastolic 70-85 mmHg

Hypertension Threshold: Systolic 130 mmHg or higher / Diastolic 80 mmHg or higher

Seniors (age 61+):

In the elderly, blood pressure often increases due to continued arterial hardening and other age-related changes. May cause dizziness and falls.

Regular blood pressure checks are important for everyone, regardless of age, especially if they have risk factors for hypertension.