What is Hypertension?

What is Hypertension

• Defined as a medical condition in which blood vessels have consistently raised pressure.
• Also known as high blood pressure.
• About 1 in 3 in Singapore have this condition.

Types of Hypertension

• Primary Hypertension, which accounts for majority of cases, stems from a complex interplay between family history, age, alcohol intake, high sodium diet, obesity, physical activity and smoking.
• Secondary Hypertension is less common, and accounts for 10% of cases. This condition arises from hormonal imbalances, kidney problems, medications or obstructive sleep apnea.

Measuring blood pressure

• Important for diagnosing and treating Hypertension.
• Avoid food and drinks for 30 minutes before measurement.
• During the measurement:
  • No talking,
  • Arms should be rested at chest height,
  • Cuff should be applied to bare skin,
  • Back is well support with feet flat on the floor.