High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a chronic condition where the force of blood against artery walls remains persistently elevated. Often referred to as the “silent killer,” hypertension may not cause noticeable symptoms for years while progressively damaging the heart, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels.

Uncontrolled high blood pressure significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, and vision loss. Over time, it causes arteries to stiffen and narrow, forcing the heart to work harder and leading to thickening of the heart muscle and reduced pumping efficiency.

Risk factors include obesity, high salt intake, physical inactivity, stress, smoking, diabetes, and family history. Regular screening is essential, as early detection allows timely intervention before complications develop.

Diagnosis involves repeated blood pressure measurements, assessment of cardiovascular risk, and evaluation for organ damage through blood tests, ECG, echocardiography, and kidney function tests.

Management includes lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, weight control, regular exercise, stress reduction, and long-term medication when required. Proper control of blood pressure dramatically reduces the risk of serious cardiovascular events and improves long-term health.