High Blood pressure can seriously damage the body's blood vessels. Stroke, heart failure, kidney problem, vision loss and several other health issues can arise from a high blood pressure.


High blood pressure is when the force of your blood pushing against your blood vessels walls, becomes too high.


The heart pumps blood around the body. The blood delivers oxygen to vital organs in the body.

A problem in the body can hinder the heart from pumping blood. E.g. when an artery becomes too narrow.

A strain on the walls of the arteries can be caused by high blood pressure which can result in other life threatening sicknesses.

Symptoms of high blood pressure is not usually obvious, however when it becomes extremely high the following symptoms will be noticed.

1. Headache
2. Vomiting
3. Nausea
4. Blurred vision
5. Dizziness
6. Nose bleeds
7. Heart palpitation


The following factors can increase the risk of high blood pressure in women:

1. Menopause
2. Pregnancy- Preeclampsia during pregnancy.

Symptoms are:
1. Headaches
2. Abdominal pain






Factors that causes the risk of high blood pressure in teens are:

1. Obesity
2. Medical conditions such as kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, endocrine disease, neurological condition and vascular disease.


In children, high blood pressure can be caused by heart problem, kidney problem, thyroid and genetic problem.


Babies also have high blood pressure, although it is rare. This can be caused by a heart or kidney disease. Symptoms are seizures, lethargy, irritability and respiratory problems.


High Blood pressure can be caused by excess weight, excessive alcohol, consuming high fat diet, smoking and the use of certain medications.





There are certain drugs that can be administered for treating high blood pressure. They include:


1. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE). Do not consume when pregnant.


2. Calcium channel blockers.

This is not suitable for people who have a history of liver disease or heart disease. There are some side effects which may occur after use but will disappear in days. These side effects are: Headaches, fatigue, dizziness, swollen ankles and feets, skin rash and swollen abdomen.




3. Thiazide diuretics.

It can help the kidneys get rid of water and sodium which can help to reduce blood pressure.

The use of this drug also comes with side effects that may disappear days after use. They are erectile dysfunction and impaired glucose tolerance.



4. Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers can slow the heart rate and also lower the force of the heartbeat thereby causing a reduction in blood pressure. Some possible side effect of these drugs are Slow heartbeat, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, erectile dysfunction and disturbed sleep.




5) Renin inhibitors

Renin produces a hormone that makes blood vessels become narrow and blood pressure to increase. A reduction of this hormone affects the blood vessels; it makes the blood vessels to widen and reduces the blood pressure. Possible side effect after use are; dizziness, diarrhea, fatigue and cough.


It is important to go for regular medical check up and seek advise from a medical professional before treatment.










Healthy practices to help reduce and prevent high blood pressure


1. Managing your diet.

2. Consuming Plant-based foods. E.g. Vegetables, Fruits, Omega oils, unrefined carbohydrate such as whole grains. Avoid processed meat.

3. Reduction in salt intake.

4. Reduction in saturated fat intake. Consume more of nuts, olive oil, avocados and Omega oils. Processed foods intake should be avoided.

4. Reduce intake of Alcohol, ciggerate and caffeine.

5. Exercise regularly.

6. Adequate sleep and rest.

7. Weight loss for overweight people.


High Blood pressure can result in stroke, kidney disease, heart attack and other life threatening sicknesses. It is important to go for regular medical check up, at least once in a year to detect any sickness in the body and commence treatment immediately.