🫀 Hypertension

• What does hypertension mean?

  High blood pressure against arteries
• What can untreated hypertension damage?

  Heart, kidneys, and brain
• Why is hypertension called the 'silent killer'?

  It shows no symptoms until serious
• What are the classifications of blood pressure?

  • Normal BP: <120/80 mmHg
  • Elevated BP: 120-129/<80 mmHg
  • Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
  • Stage 2 Hypertension: ≥140/90 mmHg
  • Hypertensive Crisis: >180/120 mmHg (Requires urgent care)
• What is primary hypertension?


  Most common, develops over time
• What causes secondary hypertension?


  Another health problem like kidney disease
• What are controllable risk factors for hypertension?

  • Eating too much salt and fatty foods
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Smoking and drinking alcohol
  • Being overweight or obese
• What are uncontrollable risk factors for hypertension?

  • Family history of high blood pressure
  • Aging
  • Certain medical conditions (diabetes, kidney disease)
• How can hypertension be prevented?

  • Eat healthy (less salt, more fruits)
  • Exercise regularly (30 minutes most days)
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol
  • Manage stress through relaxation
• What are the methods to control high blood pressure?

  • Healthy eating (cut down on salt)
  • Exercise regularly (walking, swimming)
  • Stay active (move more, sit less)
  • Monitor your BP at home
  • Take medications if needed
• Why is non-pharmacologic management important for hypertension?

  • First-line approach for prevention
  • Recommended for all patients
  • Lowers blood pressure significantly
  • Reduces need for medications
  • Prevents complications
• What does the DASH diet emphasize?

  • Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains
  • Reduces sodium intake
  • Increases potassium, magnesium, calcium
• How many servings of vegetables and fruits should you eat daily on the DASH diet?

  4-5 servings
• What is the recommended sodium intake for hypertension?

  Less than 2.3g per day
• What is the effect of high salt intake?

  Increases blood pressure and heart disease risk
• What is the recommended daily potassium intake?

  3,500-5,000 mg
• What are tips for weight management to prevent hypertension?

  • Eat balanced meals
  • Stay active and avoid sedentary habits
  • Monitor portion sizes
  • Avoid sugary beverages
• What are the BMI categories for obesity classification?

  • Underweight: BMI <18.5
  • Normal Weight: BMI 18.5-24.9
  • Overweight: BMI 25-29.9
  • Obesity Class I: BMI 30-34.9
  • Obesity Class II: BMI 35-39.9
  • Obesity Class III: BMI ≥40
• How does BMI classification differ for Asians?

  • Underweight: BMI <18.5
  • Normal Weight: BMI 18.5-22.9
  • Overweight: BMI 23.0-24.9
  • Obesity Class I: BMI 25.0-29.9
  • Obesity Class II: BMI ≥30
• What is the recommended amount of exercise per week for hypertension management?

  150 minutes of moderate exercise
• What is the effect of excessive alcohol intake on blood pressure?

  Raises blood pressure
• How does smoking affect blood pressure?

  Nicotine raises blood pressure
• What are techniques to manage stress effectively?

  • Meditation and deep breathing
  • Regular physical activity
  • Social support and relaxation hobbies
  • Adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
• What medications may be prescribed for high blood pressure?

  • Diuretics
  • Beta-blockers
  • ACE inhibitors & ARBs
  • Calcium channel blockers
• What is a hypertensive urgency?

  Very high BP, no organ damage
• What symptoms indicate a hypertensive emergency?

  Chest pain, severe headache, vision changes
• What should you remember about high blood pressure?

  • Can be dangerous if untreated
  • Healthy lifestyle choices help
  • Regular check-ups are important
  • Take medication as prescribed
  • Seek help for hypertensive emergencies
• What are the steps for accurate blood pressure measurement?

  1. Ensure patient is at rest
  2. Wait after smoking or coffee
  3. Quiet and comfortable room
  4. Remove clothing from arm
  5. Position arm at heart level
• What is the palpatory method for measuring blood pressure?

  • Attach BP gauge to sleeve
  • Place fingers on radial artery
  • Inflate cuff until pulse disappears
  • Add 30 mmHg for maximum inflation
• What is the procedure for measuring blood pressure?

  • Cuff snug above antecubital crease
  • Inflate to predetermined level
  • Deflate slowly at 2-3 mmHg/second
  • Note first two beats (systolic)
  • Continue until sounds disappear (diastolic)