A recent study has indicated that more than 50% of Indians with hypertension are unaware of their condition. In addition, less than 1 in 7 (13%) take blood pressure lowering medication, and less than 1 in 10 (18%) are able to achieve control over the condition. The need of the hour is to increase awareness on hypertension, its causes, and the fact that it can cause damage to other organs if left untreated.
Hypertension is defined as BP that is constantly higher than the recommended level of 140/90 mm Hg. Due to lack of symptoms, this condition gets detected only years after the actual onset. Precautionary measures are therefore a must, especially in those with a family history of the condition.
Speaking about this, Dr Rajeev Rathi, Director & Head of the Trans-Radial Interventional Programme, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket said: “Hypertension is a silent killer and a condition that can affect, major vital organs like the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes, over time. In these patients, the heart must work against greater resistance which puts more load on it. It further causes the heart to enlarge, weaken, and may result in heart failure. High BP increases the risk of paralysis and heart attack. Very often, this illness diagnosed when patient comes to the hospital because of either heart failure or heart attack or paralysis. Due to this, high BP is also called as a silent killer. It is therefore imperative to undergo regular health checkups and understand whether your blood pressure is under control. One should also adhere to the medication schedule failing which the condition can cause the above-mentioned complications.”