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Please get your Blood Pressure checked

17 November 2004, 18:00 PM
OPINION
By Dr. Rubaiul Murshed
17 November 2004, 18:00 PM
High Blood pressure (hypertension) is indeed a silent slayer or killer. As it is usually asymptomatic, it is sensible to check your blood pressure (BP) routinely. And if you have headaches, blurred vision, feel dizzy or sleep disturbances, a thorough screening is essential. Many young men and women are suffering from high blood pressure these days in Bangladesh (probably mostly in the cities) along with aged people. According to some medicine specialists, "only half of the affected have been identified; only half of the identified have been managed, and only half of those are satisfactorily treated." If treated in time one could have been saved from 'retinopathy' (limiting vision/eyesight), 'paralytic attack' (brain-chances increase seven fold) or peripheral arterial disease (pain on walking). As well high BP can damage your kidneys and there could be erectile dysfunction (penis reduces its rigidity). Chronic hypertension also causes pregnancy related problems along with growth retardation and premature birth. But above all, high BP is a major risk factor for stroke and myocardial infarction (squeezing pain in the centre of the chest caused by occlusion of one or more of the coronary arteries).

Study reveals that high blood pressure speeds up the formation of fatty acids in the arteries, and puts the heart under additional damage. Our heart is the vehicle that drives us through existence. Chances of angina or heart attack add to three-fold in cases of hypertensive (high BP) people.

Blood Pressure (BP): What does it mean?
Blood Pressure is the pressure of blood flow. Heart endlessly pumps blood through blood vessels to different parts of the body. The flow produces pressure against the vessel walls. Blood Pressure is a measure of this pressure. This value is affected by innumerable factors, the more important being the condition of one's heart and arteries. Arteries that are clogged affect the flow of blood circulation and limit the amount of blood to heart, following in strokes or heart attacks.

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How is BP properly measured?
BP measurements are indicated by 2 numbers, e.g.,140/90 mmHg, 120/80 mmHg. The higher number is the systolic blood pressure (top value) and is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is pumping blood. The other number indicates the diastolic blood pressure (bottom value) and measures the lower pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

But remember, one or two readings may not indicate the true blood pressure. By taking regular readings at a predetermined time each day, you will be alerted with any irregularities and early precautionary action can be taken against potential health problems. The World Health Organisation has set a classification or standard by which blood pressure, whether systolic or diastolic, is compared. This helps to decide whether your pressure readings are considered high or low. Then again, for children the numbers are different; and special tables are obtainable with child specialists.

Did you know?
No BP drugs or medicine can help (a hypertensive) if not accompanied by healthy eating habits and regular exercise. Don't forget, if you would like some more advice, pop into your local clinic/health centre/hospital and talk to the doctor.