TO YOUR HEALTH
Recognizing and Treating Hypertension: A Functional Medicine Approach BY HELENA AMOS, M.AC. L.AC., EURO. PHYSICIAN Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated, specifically with a sustained blood pressure reading of over 140/80 mmHg or higher. The first number (systolic) represents the pressure when the heart contracts, and the second number (diastolic) represents the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats. It is frequently referred to as “the silent killer”, as many people with hy- pertension are asymptomatic, i.e., they do not experience any obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages of the condition. However, there are many indicators that can assist with prevention and earlier detection, so it’s important to understand the full scope of the disease. To start, there are four main types of hypertension: 1. Primary (Essential) Hypertension — the most common type, accounting for about 90-95% of cases; the exact cause is unknown, but it is likely due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. 2. Secondary Hypertension — caused by any of various underlying medical conditions, the most common of which include kidney dis- ease, thyroid disorders, sleep apnea, and or certain medication, e.g., corticosteroids, birth control pills. 3. Resistant Hypertension — when blood pressure remains high despite the use of three or more blood pressure medications; often due to lifestyle factors, underlying medical conditions, or medication non-adherence. 4. Malignant Hypertension — a severe and life-threatening form, characterized by extremely high blood pressure (often over 180/120 mmHg) and can lead to organ damage if left untreated. Just as there is a range of disease types, the clinical manifestations of hypertension can vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition once beyond the asymptomatic phase. Some of the com- mon symptoms of hypertension follow: ● Headache - Persistent or recurrent headaches, particularly in the back of the head or at the temples. ● Dizziness or Lightheadedness - Especially when standing up quickly. ● Chest Pain or Discomfort - Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to chest pain or a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest, which may indicate underlying heart disease. ● Shortness of Breath - High blood pressure can put strain on the heart and lungs, leading to difficulty breathing or short - ness of breath, especially with physical activity. ● Nosebleeds - Caused when small blood vessels in the nose burst, leading to nosebleeds. ● Fatigue and Weakness - From persistent high blood pressure. ● Vision Changes - Uncontrolled hypertension can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision changes or even vision loss. ● Swelling (Edema) - Fluid buildup and swelling, particularly in the legs, ankles and feet.
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PATHWAYS—Fall 24—31
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