“Hypertension that is not treated properly can cause serious complications that are potentially fatal. Examples include heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and aortic aneurysms.”
Hypertension or pressure is known as the "silent killer" or killer in a subtle way. This is because this disease can cause serious complications that are potentially fatal, even causing death indirectly.
There needs to be prevention so that hypertension does not cause dangerous complications. Prevention can be done by recognizing the signs and symptoms to watch out for.
Hypertension Complications to Watch Out for
There are several complications of hypertension that can cause death, including:
1. Heart attack
Hypertension can cause damage to the artery walls and accelerate the development of coronary artery disease. Narrowing of the heart arteries can block the flow of blood that supplies oxygen to the heart muscle. If blood flow stops completely, a heart attack (myocardial infarction) can occur. Heart attacks can be fatal if not treated immediately.
2. Strokes
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can block the flow of blood vessels to the brain. Obstruction of blood flow can lead to rupture of blood vessels, resulting in a stroke. Stroke is a serious condition that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted, resulting in permanent damage to brain tissue.
3. Kidney disease
Chronic high blood pressure can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys. Damage to the kidneys can lead to kidney failure, in which the kidneys are unable to effectively remove toxins and waste products from the body.
Chronic kidney disease is a serious condition that may require dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain healthy body functions.
4. Aortic aneurysm
An aortic aneurysm is a condition in which the wall of the main blood vessel (aorta) that carries blood from the heart weakens and expands. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can increase the risk of aortic aneurysm. If an aneurysm ruptures, it can cause severe internal bleeding and possibly death.
5. Hypertensive heart disease
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause structural changes in the heart, such as thickening of the left ventricular wall (left ventricular hypertrophy). This can decrease the heart's ability to pump blood effectively and increase the risk of heart failure. Chronic heart failure can affect overall body function and possibly lead to death.
Various complications can occur in people with hypertension. Therefore it is important for people with hypertension to regularly check their blood pressure, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and take medication according to doctor's recommendations.
With proper treatment, the sufferer's quality of life can improve and complications can be avoided.