Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most common health conditions worldwide, and also one of the most dangerous if left unmanaged. It often develops without obvious symptoms, which is why it’s known as the “silent killer.” In this article, we’ll explain what hypertension is, what causes it, how you can prevent it, and how our Home GP service in Manilva from Helicopteros Sanitarios can support you in monitoring and managing this condition from the comfort of your home.
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension occurs when the force of your blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this extra pressure can damage blood vessels and lead to serious complications like heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss.
Blood pressure is measured with two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (top number): the force when your heart beats
- Diastolic pressure (bottom number): the force when your heart rests between beats
A normal reading is around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is typically diagnosed when readings consistently exceed 140/90 mmHg.
Common Causes of Hypertension
There isn’t always a single cause for high blood pressure, but several lifestyle and medical factors can increase your risk.
Primary (essential) hypertension, the most common type, develops gradually with age and is often linked to:
- Poor diet (especially high salt intake)
- Lack of physical activity
- Excess weight or obesity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Stress
- Family history of high blood pressure
Secondary hypertension is caused by another underlying condition such as:
- Kidney disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Hormonal imbalances
- Certain medications (like birth control pills or cold remedies)
Why Hypertension is Dangerous
Because it often has no symptoms, many people don’t realize they have hypertension until it’s already causing damage. Left untreated, high blood pressure can:
- Damage your arteries
- Increase your risk of heart attack and stroke
- Cause heart failure
- Lead to kidney damage
- Affect your vision and cognitive function
How to Prevent Hypertension
The good news? Hypertension is often preventable—and even reversible—through lifestyle changes and regular monitoring. Here are some effective prevention strategies:
- Eat a balanced, low-sodium diet (such as the DASH diet)
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stay physically active (at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days)
- Limit alcohol and avoid smoking
- Manage stress through mindfulness, yoga, or relaxation techniques
- Get regular check-ups and monitor your blood pressure
Home GP Service for Hypertension in Manilva
Managing blood pressure doesn’t always require hospital visits. At Helicopteros Sanitarios, our Home GP service in Manilva allows you to receive regular blood pressure checks, lifestyle advice, and medication management in your own home. Especially for elderly patients or those with limited mobility, this can make a significant difference in consistent care and early detection of issues.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. If you live in Manilva and want to take proactive steps to manage or prevent high blood pressure, our Home GP service is here to help. Our doctors come directly to you, offering personalised care tailored to your needs.