What is Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)?
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common condition in which the long-term force of blood against artery walls is high enough to cause health problems such as heart disease.
Signs & Symptoms of Hypertension
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds (in severe cases)
Note: Most people with high blood pressure have no signs or symptoms — it is often called the "silent killer."
Causes of Hypertension
- Primary hypertension: No identifiable cause; develops gradually over many years.
- Secondary hypertension: Caused by an underlying condition such as obstructive sleep apnea, kidney disease, adrenal gland tumors, or thyroid problems.
Diagnosis
- Ambulatory 24-hour blood pressure monitoring
- Urine test and blood tests including a cholesterol test
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure the heart's electrical activity
Complications
Left untreated, hypertension may lead to heart attack, aneurysm, and heart failure.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Hypertension
Ayurveda treats hypertension through stress-relieving herbs like Ashwagandha, Sarpagandha, and heart-strengthening therapies. Hypertension treatment in Ayurveda naturally balances blood pressure without chemical side effects.