Hypertension

Hypertension, also known as high-blood pressure, is a major health risk in Singapore. The Singapore Disease Burden Study (2004) reveals that 25 percent of Singaporeans between 30 and 69 were affected by hypertension. This disease increases the risk factor for strokes, coronary artery disease, heart failure and chronic renal disease.

Measurements

Measuring blood pressure involves the measurement of the force of the blood created by one’s heartbeat (systolic pressure) and the pressure inside blood vessels (diastolic pressure). The normal blood pressure level of an adult should be between 90 and 119 (systolic pressure), and 60 and 79 (diastolic pressure), or close to 90/60 mmHg. Many factors, such as the level of water and salt in one’s body, the condition of blood vessels, kidneys, the nervous system and hormonal levels, can all affect blood pressure levels.

Risk factors

While everyone risks being affected by hypertension, persons with a family history of the disease, people suffering from obesity, diabetes and smokers are at higher risk. In most cases, however, the causes of hypertension are unidentifiable.

Symptoms

Hypertension is often associated with symptoms such as chest pains, confusion, irregular heartbeat, buzzing ears, changes in vision, fatigue, nose bleeds, and severe headaches, but most often, warning signs are not visible. If you develop any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to see your medical practitioner immediately as this may be signs of malignant high blood pressure.

Management and prevention

High blood pressure may be controlled through medication and lifestyle changes. Your medical practitioner may prescribe medicine- aimed at reducing blood pressure- suited to your condition after a medical examination. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy dietary patterns, weight loss, stress management and reduced alcohol consumption may help in controlling the condition.

The Singapore Heart Foundation disseminates additional information on the prevention and causes of such heart diseases as hypertension: http://www.myheart.org.sg/

Tips to help you remember to take your medication:

• Establish a routine – Take your pills at the same time every day, preferably with a meal.
• Set up a reminder– Use your mobile phone or an alarm clock to set up a reminder to take your medicines or just tick the days off on your calendar as you swallow your pills
• Seek support – ask your spouse, a family member or a friend to remind you now and then to adhere to your medication schedule
• Opt for an easy-to-remember schedule – Most medications are now available as a once-a day formulation, which are easier to adhere to as compared to drugs which need to be taken several times a day
• Newer treatment options – Combination formulations – containing more than one medicine are now available to facilitate your treatment. All you need to do is take a single pill to treat two different medical conditions. Speak to your doctor for such combination formulation to treat your medical condition.

Heart Disease and Stroke: All you need to know