World Hypertension Day

Hypertension is one of the most common diseases of the cardiovascular system. In Russia, about 40% of the adult population has elevated blood pressure. Despite this, only about 37% of men and 58% of women effected know about their illness, and only between 22% and 46% of them are receiving treatment. According to doctors, patients may not be aware of their illness for many years, do not complain of ill effects, and lead active lifestyles, although sometimes they may suffer bouts of dizziness, severe weakness, and even faint. But, despite this warning, a sufferer may put this down to overwork.

Recognition of hypertension finally occurs in the patient only when the vital organs are affected. These organs are most sensitive to rising blood pressure. The occurrence of dizziness, headaches, noise in the head, memory loss and loss of energy in the patient, usually indicate initial changes in the cerebral circulation. The advanced stage of hypertension may be complicated by heart attack or bleeding on the brain.

How does one recognize the illness?
Hypertension usually manifests itself as headaches, shortness of breath, swelling feet, impaired vision, general weakness, and irregular heartbeat.
The risk factors include being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, alcohol consumption, eating large amounts of salt in your food, an unbalanced diet, smoking, stress, and high cholesterol.
Dr Olga Ermolaeva, head of General Practice at the BNRU Medical Centre, said that,

“A healthy lifestyle will help to overcome the disease. You need to rid yourself of bad habits, increase your physical activity, balance your nutrition, and go for periodic medical examinations.”