High blood pressure (hypertension) develops gradually and its effects are often only noticed for years when it puts a strain on the blood vessels. Serious secondary diseases such as stroke, heart attack or kidney damage can occur. However, regular checks can prevent this and the first signs of illness can be treated.
High blood pressure is a widespread disease. In Germany alone, almost 44% of the population1 is currently affected. The older people get, the more people suffer from high blood pressure. However, many of those affected have been diagnosed with the disease and are receiving appropriate treatment.
What is high blood pressure?
A measurement is used to determine whether high blood pressure exists. When measuring blood pressure, a distinction is made between two values that are always measured together, e.g. 120/80 mmHg. The first value indicates the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart contracts - the systolic value. The second value measures the pressure in the vessels when the heart muscle relaxes - the diastolic value.
Blood pressure is said to be elevated if the systolic value is above 140, the diastolic value above 90 or if both values are elevated.
Common complaints and what can be done about them
Elevated blood pressure often remains undetected and untreated for a long time, as it is barely noticeable. Only when it is extremely high can it cause symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, palpitations or shortness of breath in some cases.
A medical examination can reveal signs of illness at an early stage and treat them accordingly. Once a year we offer our patients a health check-up once a year to detect early signs and thus minimize risks.
Stroke and heart attack as secondary diseases
Excessively high blood pressure can lead to secondary diseases in the long term, as the heart, for example, suffers as a result. If you experience the following symptoms, you should call 112 immediately:
- Sudden visual disturbances, numbness or paralysis can be warning signs of a stroke
- Sudden onset, prolonged severe pain or pressure behind the breastbone can be warning signs of a heart attack
Risk factors for high blood pressure
Blood pressure is regulated in the body as required. Normally, blood pressure is low in relaxed situations, even during sleep. If the muscles need more blood during physical exertion, blood pressure rises. Stress and anxiety can also increase blood pressure.
It is quite normal to have fluctuating blood pressure levels, as they are part of an active life. However, if the pressure is permanently too high, it can damage blood vessels and cause secondary diseases.
A high-salt diet, obesity, too much alcohol and nicotine, too little exercise and stress can all contribute to high blood pressure.
However, sporty, slim and diet-conscious people can also have high blood pressure, as the cause could be a family predisposition. In some cases, medication can also cause high blood pressure.
The causes of high blood pressure must be clarified and treated individually with the doctor.
Basic rules for healthy blood pressure
Some people get their blood pressure under control by doing a few things themselves.
The following basic rules will help you:
- Healthy, balanced and low-salt diet
- Regular physical exercise
- Abstaining from alcohol and nicotine
- Weight reduction for overweight
If your blood pressure is nevertheless high, it can be treated and lowered with proven medication - in consultation with a doctor.
Please contact us if you suspect that you have high blood pressure. We will check your blood pressure and discuss possible treatment if necessary.
Doctor, sports medicine
Dr. med. H. F. König
Your doctors for sports medicine in
Baden-Baden
Our sports medicine physicians provide comprehensive care aimed at helping athletes maintain their health and performance and prevent injuries. With a holistic approach, we develop individual treatment plans tailored to the needs of each patient. From performance diagnostics to rehabilitation, we use our expertise to help you achieve your sporting goals.
