Hypertension In Women

Hypertension, also known as "high blood pressure" or "HBP", is a condition that equally affects both males and females. But, studies have it that, the women who have reached menopause are more susceptible to get hypertension as compared to men.

Hypertension is also known by the name "silent killer" due to the fact that many a times people have it, but, do not know it. Hence, the condition sustains and after a point of time shows its manifestations. The person gets sick and can even die, keeping true to its name.

Let's take a detailed look at what hypertension is? How is it dangerous for women, especially pregnant women? And how to combat this dreadful condition?

What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension, called as high blood pressure in the regular language, is a condition when the pressure exerted by the blood on the walls of arteries increases to a great extent. This may pose a threat to the overall health and can lead to serious consequences, even death.

What Causes Hypertension?

• The causes of hypertension in women can be :
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• No exercise or any other physical activity
• Consuming excessive salt in diet
• Stress
• Family history of hypertension
• Genetics
• Thyroid Disorder
• Adrenal Disorder
• Chronic Kidney Disorder
• Sleep Apnea
• Taking birth control pills

Hypertension And Pregnancy

Hypertension that occurs during pregnancy is known as preeclampsia as well as toxemia. It generally begins after twenty weeks of pregnancy and the condition stays until 6 weeks after the child birth. The condition is characterized by high content of protein in urine and elevated blood pressure, which are the results of any renal condition. Preeclampsia usually disappears after the birth of the baby.

Preeclampsia usually occurs if :

• If the woman was hypertensive before her pregnancy
• Had developed preeclampsia or hypertension during her last pregnancy
• If she is obese
• If she is under 20 years of age or over 40 years of age
• If she is carrying more than 1 baby
• If she is diabetic
• If she has any renal disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma or lupus

What Are The Symptoms Of Preeclampsia?

The symptoms peculiar to preeclampsia are :

• Swelling
• Change in vision
• Headache
• Sudden weight gain

It is really important to keep a check on blood pressure during pregnancy. Failing to do so, the mother and the baby have to face severe consequences. High blood pressure during pregnancy can cause harm to kidney and other organs of the body. It may also result in low birth weight and also, cam cause premature delivery.

Hypertension And Menopause

Studies have proved that, the women who are to reach the menopause or who have already reached menopause are at a greater risk of developing hypertension. It is better to monitor blood pressure regularly and consult a doctor if necessary.

What Are The Consequences Of Hypertension?

The major life- threatening consequences of hypertension include :

• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Heat Failure
• Kidney Problems
• Blindness

How To Keep Hypertension In Control?

It is very important to keep a strict check on high blood pressure. You can keep it control by the following measures:

• Regularly monitor your blood pressure.
• Get involved into a physical activity or exercise religiously.
• Weight loss is necessary if you are obese.
• Cut down salt in your diet.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• Say goodbye to smoking.
• Take medications if required.

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