What causes hypertension?

Blood pressure depends on the force of blood pushing against your artery walls as it circulates through your body. It can change based on factors such as blood volume, salt intake, and the health of your blood vessels. About 5–10% of high blood pressure cases result from underlying conditions like kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or adrenal gland problems.

The remaining 90–95% develop gradually due to risk factors such as:

• Being overweight or obese

• High cholesterol

• Lack of physical activity

• Excess salt consumption

• Smoking

• Excessive alcohol intake

• Ongoing stress

What symptoms develop if I have hypertension?

Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it rarely causes noticeable symptoms. Many people only discover it during a routine health checkup. Without regular exams, it may remain undetected until a serious event like a heart attack or stroke occurs.

Untreated high blood pressure damages artery walls and allows cholesterol to build up into plaque — a condition known as atherosclerosis. Over time this can lead to:

• Peripheral artery disease

• Carotid artery disease

• Coronary artery disease

• Chronic kidney disease

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Plaque can also rupture and form clots that block blood flow in vital organs.

How is hypertension treated?

Routine screenings help detect early changes in blood pressure (prehypertension). At this stage, lifestyle adjustments may restore normal levels, including reducing salt intake, eating more fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, losing weight, and quitting smoking.

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medication may be prescribed to control blood pressure and prevent complications.

For blood pressure screening, preventive care, or ongoing management, call Padder Health Services or schedule your appointment online today.