Hypertension

Hypertension is a chronic condition characterized by persistently high blood pressure, which can lead to cardiovascular complications.

Overview

Hypertension, refers to consistently elevated blood pressure levels that can strain the heart and blood vessels, leading to cardiovascular problems. Ayurveda approaches hypertension as an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, and aims to restore balance for long-term management.

Hypertension refers to consistently elevated blood pressure levels that can strain the heart and blood vessels, leading to cardiovascular problems. Ayurveda approaches hypertension as an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, and aims to restore balance for long-term management. Treatment focuses on dietary and lifestyle modifications, stress reduction, herbal remedies, and Ayurvedic therapies to regulate blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and minimize the risk of complications.

Symptoms

Hypertension often presents as a silent condition, with no obvious symptoms in the early stages. However, persistently high blood pressure can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, chest pain, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeats. Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential to detect and manage hypertension.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for hypertension include a family history of high blood pressure, age, obesity, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, stress, and certain medical conditions.

Types

Hypertension is classified into two types: primary (essential) hypertension, which has no identifiable cause, and secondary hypertension, which occurs due to an underlying medical condition.

Causes

Multiple factors contribute to the development of hypertension, including genetics, unhealthy lifestyle choices, obesity, stress, high-sodium diet, sedentary habits, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain underlying medical conditions. Understanding and addressing these causes play a crucial role in managing hypertension effectively.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosing hypertension involves regular blood pressure measurements and monitoring. Ayurvedic treatment for hypertension focuses on balancing the doshas, reducing stress, improving cardiovascular health, and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Treatment includes dietary modifications, adopting a low-sodium and high-potassium diet, regular exercise, stress reduction techniques such as meditation and yoga, and herbal remedies to support cardiovascular health. Ayurvedic therapies like Shirodhara (oil dripping on the forehead), Nasya (nasal administration of herbal oils), and herbal formulations may be recommended to promote relaxation, improve blood circulation, and reduce blood pressure.

Regular follow-up visits, blood pressure monitoring, and adjustments to the treatment plan are important for long-term management of hypertension.