Objectives

Recognize the importance of a healthy body in the Lords work. Identify at least three risk factors for HPN Utilize five preventive actions against HPN.

Four Major NCDs:

CVD Cancer COPD DM

And one major risk factor for the development of CVD is...

Definition

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common condition in which the force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease.

Causes

Primary (essential) hypertension For most adults, there's no identifiable cause of high blood pressure. This type of high blood pressure, called essential hypertension or primary hypertension, tends to develop gradually over many years. Secondary hypertension Some people have high blood pressure caused by an underlying condition. This type of high blood pressure, called secondary hypertension, tends to appear suddenly and cause higher blood pressure than does primary hypertension. Various conditions and medications can lead to secondary hypertension, including: Kidney problems Adrenal gland tumors Certain defects in blood vessels you're born with (congenital) Certain medications, such as birth control pills, cold remedies, decongestants, over-the-counter pain relievers and some prescription drugs Illegal drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines

Risk Factors

Age Race Family History Being overweight or obese Not being physically active Using tobacco Too much salt (sodium) in your diet Too little potassium in your diet Too little vitamin D in your diet Drinking too much alcohol Stress Certain chronic conditions

What is blood pressure?

It is the pressure exerted by the blood in the arteries. Normal: <120/80 mmHg (Joint National Committee, 7
th

Report)

Pathophysiology

The work of the heart is to pump blood to the different parts of the body. The body has arteries that carry oxygenated blood to the body and veins to carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. It is a cycle. That is why it is called blood circulation!

The pressure is determined by the amount of blood ejected from the heart (CO = SV X HR) for a minute and the peripheral vascular resistance. Any increase in any of the two raises the blood pressure.

Complications
Heart attack or stroke Aneurysm Heart failure Weakened and narrowed blood vessel in your kidneys Thickened, narrowed or torn blood vessels in the eyes Metabolic syndrome Trouble with memory or understanding

Signs and Symptoms

Most people with high blood pressure have no signs or symptoms, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels. Although a few people with early-stage high blood pressure may have dull headaches, dizzy spells or a few more nosebleeds than normal, these signs and symptoms typically don't occur until high blood pressure has reached a severe even life-threatening stage.

Key Areas for Prevention

Proper nutrition Prevent obesity Smoking Cessation Regular check-ups for those at risk

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Eat healthy foods. Decrease the salt in your diet. Maintain a healthy weight. Increase physical activity. Limit alcohol. Dont smoke. Manage stress. Monitor BP at home. Practice relaxation or slow, deep breathing.