World Hypertension Day - May 17
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic condition where blood pressure is elevated. World Hypertension Day is organized to raise awareness about preventable diseases caused by high blood pressure, such as stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease, and to educate the public on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Every year, May 17 is celebrated as World Hypertension Day.

High blood pressure is when the pressure of the blood in our vessels, necessary for blood circulation, is higher than normal. The most common symptoms of high blood pressure include dizziness, headache, chest pain, ringing in the ears, shortness of breath, double or blurred vision, nosebleeds, and irregular heartbeats.

There can be multiple causes of high blood pressure. These causes include heredity, gender, diabetes, obesity, smoking and alcohol use, stress, inadequate physical activity, excessive salt intake, unhealthy dietary habits, and aging. High blood pressure can also develop due to certain illnesses or during pregnancy.

High blood pressure, which can be seen at any age, occurs not only in adults and patients but also in children. There are many reasons for high blood pressure in children. Blood pressure should be measured in all children from the age of three during their check-ups.

If high blood pressure is not controlled, it can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart disease, kidney failure, cognitive impairment, blindness, and the formation of aneurysms in the blood vessels.

To prevent the development of high blood pressure, avoiding tobacco and alcohol use, healthy eating, regular exercise, reducing salt intake, and losing weight if overweight or obese can be sufficient to control high blood pressure. If these measures are not sufficient, medication under the supervision of a physician may be initiated.

Important Considerations for Hypertensive Individuals:

Refrain from tobacco and alcohol use,
Eat healthily,
Lose weight if overweight/obese,
Engage in regular physical activities,
Reduce salt intake,
Prioritize regular check-ups and monitoring of the condition,
Take medications as prescribed, in the recommended dosage and duration, without interruption,
Regularly monitor blood pressure or ensure it is monitored.