Hypertension
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Theodoros Barlogiannis, CardiologistLast updated: 7 April 2026
Hypertension is chronically elevated blood pressure in the arteries, usually 140/90 mmHg or higher on repeated clinic measurements. In most cases it causes no symptoms at all, which is why it is called the 'silent enemy'. It is diagnosed with simple blood-pressure measurements and often confirmed with 24-hour ambulatory monitoring (blood pressure Holter).
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a serious but often asymptomatic condition characterized by increased pressure in the arteries. If left undiagnosed and untreated, hypertension can lead to severe complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. However, with appropriate medical care, hypertension can be effectively managed.
What are the risk factors for developing hypertension?
There are many factors that may contribute to the development of hypertension. Some of the most common ones include:
- Family History: Individuals with a family history of hypertension have a higher risk of developing the condition.
- Age: The risk of hypertension increases with age.
- Gender: Men generally have a higher risk of developing hypertension at a younger age, while the risk for women increases after menopause.
- Diet: High salt intake, low potassium consumption, and excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption can contribute to hypertension.
- Physical Activity: Lack of regular exercise can increase the risk of hypertension.
- Obesity: Obesity puts additional pressure on the heart and can lead to hypertension.
- Smoking: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can raise blood pressure.
- Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to long-term hypertension.
Management of Hypertension
Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial for controlling hypertension. These changes may include:
- Regular exercise
- Balanced diet with low sodium intake
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Quitting smoking
- Stress reduction
Medication: In some cases, medication may be recommended to control blood pressure. There are several categories of drugs available (e.g., diuretics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors), each with specific mechanisms to lower blood pressure.
Regular check-ups and proper monitoring of blood pressure are essential for the accurate management of patients and adjustment of the treatment plan when needed. A cardiologist can provide specialized care and guidance for hypertension management, tailoring the treatment plan according to the individual needs of each patient.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of hypertension?
In the great majority of cases hypertension causes no symptoms at all and is discovered incidentally during a measurement. When readings are very high, headache, dizziness, ringing in the ears or blurred vision may appear. Precisely because it is usually symptomless, regular measurement is the only way to detect it early.
When is blood pressure considered high?
Hypertension is generally defined as blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or above on repeated clinic measurements. For home readings the threshold is lower, around 135/85 mmHg. Targets are individualized according to age and coexisting conditions — your cardiologist will determine the target that applies to you.
Which tests are needed for hypertension?
The basic work-up includes 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (blood pressure Holter), an electrocardiogram and a cardiac ultrasound to assess any effect on the heart muscle, along with blood and urine laboratory tests. Together these show whether blood pressure has already affected the heart or other organs.
Can hypertension be managed without medication?
In mild cases, lifestyle changes — reducing salt, losing weight, regular exercise, limiting alcohol and stopping smoking — may be sufficient, and they always form the foundation of treatment. In many cases medication is also needed. The decision is strictly individual; consult your doctor.
What are the risks of uncontrolled hypertension?
Long-standing uncontrolled hypertension strains the arteries and the heart and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney damage and vision problems. Good control substantially reduces these risks, which is why regular monitoring matters so much.
The information above is educational and does not replace medical advice.
This information is for educational purposes. Please consult your cardiologist for personalized evaluation.