Understanding Link Between Hypertension & Heart Failure
India has been experiencing a growing burden of hypertension over the past few decades, putting the population at risk of developing serious illnesses that are exacerbated by this condition. A recent ICMR survey found that 28.5 per cent of adults in India were hypertensive. Nearly 72.1 per cent or 3/4th of these hypertensive patients were undiagnosed. Long-standing hypertension can become a significant risk factor for various cardiac complications and is a leading cause of Hypertensive Heart Disease (HHD).
Often referred to as a “silent killer” Hypertensive Heart Disease poses a substantial threat to the heart's health and overall well-being. It is responsible for roughly 1/4th of all causes of heart problems.
The condition arises when prolonged hypertension puts an increased strain on the heart, causing structural and functional changes in the myocardium. Over time, this sustained pressure impairs the heart’s ability to effectively pump blood through the arteries. As a result, the heart may struggle to meet the body's demands for blood and oxygen, leading to various cardiac complications, and eventually in heart failure.
While other comorbidities like diabetes, poor lipid levels, and kidney disease and risk factors like old age, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and inadequate sleep can also contribute to the development of heart disease, elevated chronic blood pressure remains the primary and a key risk factor.
This is because hypertension is asymptomatic; many people with the condition might not even know they have it. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 46 per cent of adults with hypertension are unaware that they have the condition.
As hypertension goes undetected or uncontrolled, the risk of developing hypertensive heart disease amplifies, underscoring the significance of early detection. Additionally, while females are biologically at lower risk of heart disease during the premenopausal age, the risk of heart disease may increase after menopause. In fact, the elderly females with hypertension, are a commonly recognized high-risk individuals for heart-failure and related conditions like atrial fibrillation.
Early detection of HHD provides an opportunity to intervene and prevent further damage to the heart and blood vessels. By identifying the condition at an early stage, healthcare professionals can implement targeted treatment plans to control blood pressure and preserve heart function, lowering the risk of HHD resulting in heart failure, heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events.
Additionally, early detection and management of HHD enhances the patient's quality of life by slowing the progressive course of disease, reducing the need for hospitalizations, and improving overall cardiovascular health.
Hypertensive Heart Disease can be effectively managed and controlled through appropriate medication, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring. Here are some ways to manage the disease:
1. Reducing blood pressure and lowering the burden on the heart are the main objectives of medications for hypertensive heart disease. Doctors may prescribe various medicines to treat hypertensive heart disease.
2. Regularly monitor blood pressure at home or by visiting your doctor frequently. This makes it easier to identify changes, and make sure the blood pressure stays within the controlled levels.
3. Follow a balanced heart-healthy diet that is low in sodium and includes more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is often recommended for individuals with hypertension.iv
4. Lifestyle changes including maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, less alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking, can lower blood pressure and strengthen the heart.
5. The inability to manage or deal with chronic stress can raise blood pressure, promoting the development of HHD. Adopt stress management practices like yoga, deep breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in hobbies.
6. Long-term motivation to sustain good lifestyle habits and medical care as recommended by the treating physicians, with good social and family support, is essential for leading a healthy life.
Early intervention offers the best chance of maintaining heart function, preventing heart failure, and reducing the risk of life-threatening cardiovascular events. We need to recognize the danger of hypertension and its impact on the heart. The journey towards heart health begins with a commitment to making positive changes for a healthier, happier life.
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