What Is Hypertensive Heart Disease?
The term “hypertensive heart disease” describes cardiac problems brought on by chronic high blood pressure. In Singapore, hypertensive diseases (including hypertensive heart disease), accounted for 3.4% of all deaths in 2021. Hypertension (whereby the systolic blood pressure is 140mmHg or more, or diastolic blood pressure is 90mmHg or more, or both) is common in Singapore. Over 35% of Singapore residents aged 18 to 74 years have hypertension.
Several distinct health conditions are brought on by the heart functioning under the strain of high blood pressure. Heart failure, stroke, arrhythmia, heart muscle thickening, and coronary artery disease, among other diseases, are all possible results of hypertensive heart disease.
Causes Of Hypertensive Heart Disease
Hypertensive heart diseases occurs when a person’s high blood pressure condition goes untreated or uncontrolled for years. When the blood pressure is high, the heart must pump more forcefully as a result. This added strain on the heart leads to the group of health conditions known as hypertensive heart diseases.
Symptoms Of Hypertensive Heart Disease
High blood pressure often has no symptoms; thus, a person may have the condition without realising it. When symptoms show, it will often be after the heart has been damaged.
Symptoms of hypertensive heart diseases may include:
- Chest ache (angina)
- Chest pressure or tension
- Excessive breathing
- Fatigue
- Persistent cough
- Ankle or leg swelling
- Discomfort in the shoulders, arms, back, or neck
- Appetite loss
You should seek immediate attention if your heart suddenly starts to beat quickly or erratically.
Risk Of Hypertensive Heart Diseases
Risk of hypertensive heart disease increases increased if
- You are obese.
- You don’t work out enough.
- You smoke.
- You consume fatty and cholesterol-rich foods.
- If heart disease runs in your family, you are more susceptible to it. Compared to women who have not experienced menopause, males are more prone to develop heart disease.
- Heart issues develop as a result of persistently high blood pressure.
When to Consult a Medical Expert
Since high blood pressure has no symptoms, you should see a doctor for regular physical exams and have your high blood checked.
Prevention
The risk of hypertensive heart disease can be reduced with lifestyle changes, including:
- Regular Exercises
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Keeping a healthy diet.
Early detection of high blood pressure will allow doctors to start treatment for the condition, thus also reducing the risk of eventually developing hypertensive heart diseases.
Cardiologists In Singapore You Can Consider
If you are looking to consult a cardiologist in Singapore on your cardiovascular health, we have compiled a list that you can consider.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.