Hypertension: Recognize, Prevent, and Control It Early

By: dr. Arieska Soetanto Soenarta, Sp. JP(K), FAsCC

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often referred to as a silent killer because it typically shows no symptoms, yet can lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and vision problems. Therefore, prevention, early detection, and proper control are essential to maintaining quality of life.

What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure remains consistently above normal levels. A person is diagnosed with hypertension if blood pressure measurements show:

• Systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg, and/or
• Diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg

Because hypertension often causes no noticeable symptoms, many individuals are unaware they have it. If left uncontrolled, it can damage blood vessels and vital organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.

Complications of Hypertension

• Coronary artery disease and heart failure
• Stroke and cerebrovascular disease
• Chronic kidney failure
• Visual impairment
• Peripheral vascular disease

Causes of High Blood Pressure

Genetic Factors

A family history of hypertension increases the risk due to inherited genes affecting blood pressure regulation.

Lifestyle Factors

• Unbalanced diet: High salt and saturated fat intake
• Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyle contributes to obesity
• Smoking and alcohol use: Damages blood vessels
• Stress and poor sleep: Increase blood pressure

Medical Conditions

• Penyakit Ginjal

  Ginjal berperan penting dalam mengatur keseimbangan cairan dan tekanan darah. Gangguan pada fungsi ginjal dapat menyebabkan peningkatan tekanan darah. Sebaliknya, hipertensi yang tidak terkontrol juga dapat memperburuk kerusakan ginjal, sehingga menimbulkan dampak kesehatan yang berkelanjutan.

• Diabetes

  Penderita diabetes, khususnya diabetes tipe 2, memiliki risiko lebih tinggi mengalami hipertensi. Kadar gula darah yang tidak terkontrol dapat merusak pembuluh darah dan mempercepat proses pengerasan arteri, yang berkontribusi terhadap peningkatan tekanan darah.

• Gangguan Kelenjar Tiroid

  Ketidakseimbangan hormon tiroid, baik pada kondisi hipotiroidisme maupun hipertiroidisme, dapat memengaruhi sistem kardiovaskular. Perubahan hormon ini dapat meningkatkan resistensi pembuluh darah, sehingga berpotensi menaikkan tekanan darah. 

Prevent Hypertension

• Regular health checks: Have your blood pressure checked regularly for early detection and monitoring of your health.
• Eradicate cigarette smoke: Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, as it can damage blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
• Be physically active: Exercise or engage in physical activity for at least 30 minutes per day.
• Balanced diet: Eat a balanced diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limit salt, sugar, and fat.
• Get enough rest: Quality sleep helps maintain hormonal balance and blood pressure.
• Stress management: Manage stress through relaxation, positive hobbies, and good time management.

Who Is at Risk?

• Age over 40
• Family history of hypertension
• Overweight or obesity
• Physical inactivity
• High salt intake
• Smoking and alcohol consumption
• Comorbidities such as diabetes or high cholesterol

Proper Blood Pressure Measurement

Before Measurement

• Rest for at least 5 minutes
• Avoid caffeine, smoking, and exercise 30 minutes prior
• Empty your bladder

During Measurement

• Sit comfortably with back supported
• Keep arm at heart level
• Use properly fitted cuff
• Do not talk during measurement

FAQ

Why is hypertension called a silent killer?
Because it often causes no symptoms until severe complications occur.

Can young people have hypertension?
Yes. Poor lifestyle choices significantly increase risk.

Do hypertensive patients need lifelong medication?
Not always. Lifestyle modification may help, but treatment decisions should be guided by a physician.

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