43% of High Blood Pressure Patients Are Unaware: Know the Early Symptoms and Prevention Tips

High blood pressure (BP), often called the "silent killer," affects many individuals without their knowledge. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 43 percent of people with high BP remain unaware of their condition, allowing the disease to quietly damage vital organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes over time.

High BP occurs when excessive pressure is exerted by blood flowing from the heart to the rest of the body. Unfortunately, it typically develops without obvious symptoms, making early detection difficult. Dr. Deepak Kumar Suman, a former resident at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital, explains that some patients may experience mild symptoms like headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or chest pressure. However, these signs are often dismissed because they resemble minor ailments like dehydration or tiredness. In severe cases, symptoms such as nosebleeds and blurred vision may appear, but often these indicate that the condition has advanced dangerously.

Continuous high BP strains the arteries, causing them to narrow and weakening their walls. This can lead to serious complications, including heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure. The risk increases if other health issues coexist with hypertension.

Prevention and control start with awareness, regular monitoring, and lifestyle choices. Individuals over 30, especially those with stressful lifestyles, obesity, smoking habits, or alcohol consumption, should be extra vigilant. Simple measures to manage high BP include reducing salt intake, avoiding fast and junk food, engaging in regular exercise, practicing yoga and meditation, and consistently tracking blood pressure levels.

If prescribed medication, it is crucial to continue treatment without interruption. Stopping medication once BP normalizes can have severe consequences, so any changes should only be made under medical supervision.

The key to combating high BP lies in early detection and sustained management. Even when feeling healthy, regular BP checks can save lives by preventing severe heart and brain diseases. Awareness and proactive care remain the most powerful tools against this silent threat.