Hypertension Complications Overview
Hypertension is a progressive disease that, if poorly controlled, can damage multiple organs. Understanding complication risks and preventive measures is crucial for long-term health management in hypertension patients.
"Preventing complications is the ultimate goal of hypertension treatment." - Chinese Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Guidelines
Cardiac Complications
Chronic hypertension increases cardiac workload, potentially causing left ventricular hypertrophy, coronary artery disease, and heart failure. Regular electrocardiograms and echocardiograms enable early detection of cardiac changes.
Maintain good blood pressure control while managing cholesterol and blood sugar. Quit smoking, limit alcohol, and exercise regularly to reduce cardiac risks.
Cerebrovascular Complications
Hypertension is a major stroke risk factor. Blood pressure control significantly reduces stroke risk. Recognize warning signs like sudden unilateral weakness or speech difficulties.
Maintain emotional stability, avoiding intense fluctuations. Regular carotid ultrasounds assess cerebrovascular health.
Renal Complications
Hypertension can cause renal artery sclerosis, impairing kidney function. Regularly check serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and proteinuria to monitor renal function.
Control dietary salt and protein intake while maintaining moderate exercise to protect kidney function.
Ocular Complications
Hypertension may cause retinopathy, potentially affecting vision. Annual fundus examinations enable early retinal change detection.
Seek immediate medical attention for blurred vision or visual field defects. Good blood pressure control slows retinopathy progression.
Arteriosclerosis
Hypertension accelerates systemic arteriosclerosis. Regular carotid and peripheral artery assessments evaluate arteriosclerosis severity.
Comprehensive measures including blood pressure control, lipid management, limited salt/fat intake, and regular exercise can slow arteriosclerosis progression.
Risk Assessment
Regular cardiovascular risk evaluations should include blood pressure variability, target organ damage, and other risk factors. Adjust treatment plans based on assessment results.
Maintain personal health records documenting test results and medication history to help doctors better evaluate disease progression.
Lifestyle Interventions
Healthy lifestyles are key to preventing complications. Control diet, exercise regularly, quit smoking, limit alcohol, and maintain ideal weight.
Balance work and rest, ensuring adequate sleep while avoiding excessive fatigue. These measures reduce complication risks.
Medication Management
Strictly follow prescribed antihypertensive regimens without unauthorized dose changes or discontinuation. Regular follow-ups enable treatment adjustments based on blood pressure control.
Be aware of drug interactions; inform doctors about current antihypertensives when taking other medications.
Emergency Preparedness
Develop personal emergency plans including emergency contacts and hospital routes. Family members should recognize hypertensive emergency symptoms and responses.
Keep home blood pressure monitors and常用药物 accessible, regularly checking expiration dates. Seek prompt medical attention for abnormalities without delay.