Myths about hypertension

• 7 myths about hypertension

  MYTH 1. Arterial hypertension is a hereditary disease

  Heredity can influence the development of hypertension, but it does not mean a 100% probability of getting the disease. If your parents have blood pressure issues, a healthy lifestyle and regular monitoring can help you avoid hypertension.

  MYTH 2. Only older people suffer from arterial hypertension

  Hypertension can affect people of any age, including children. The increase in cases among youth is associated with obesity, unhealthy diets, and sedentary lifestyles. Moreover, the disease often goes undetected for a long time because most young people don't pay attention to this problem.

  MYTH 3. You only need to take medication when you feel unwell

  This is one of the most dangerous myths that can cost patients their health — and sometimes their lives. Arterial hypertension is a chronic condition that requires constant control, even if you feel fine.

  Regular intake of prescribed medications combined with a healthy lifestyle is the only effective way to prevent serious complications of hypertension such as stroke, heart attack, heart or kidney failure.

  The goal of treatment is to achieve and maintain a target blood pressure (below 130/80 mm Hg). That’s why it’s important to follow your individually tailored treatment plan every day — even when you feel well.

  MYTH 4. There is such a thing as “working” blood pressure

  Elevated blood pressure — even without symptoms — is dangerous to your health. It should not be considered “normal” or “working,” even if you're used to those numbers.

  Hypertension often progresses without symptoms, but gradually damages blood vessels, the heart, brain, and kidneys. The earlier you begin monitoring and treating hypertension regularly, the more effectively you can prevent complications.

  MYTH 5. A couple of IV drips a year are enough for treatment

  This is a widespread misconception with no scientific basis. Temporary intravenous infusions (“drips”) do not treat hypertension and do not prevent its complications.

  Arterial hypertension is a chronic condition that requires daily monitoring and ongoing treatment. Only regular use of prescribed medications combined with a healthy lifestyle reduces the risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and other cardiovascular diseases.

  MYTH 6. Arterial hypertension can be cured with folk remedies

  Folk remedies are ineffective in treating hypertension. So if you come across a miracle cure for hypertension — don’t waste your time or money on it.

  MYTH 7. Blood pressure naturally rises with age

  In reality, there is no such thing as an "age norm" for blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure (≥140/90 mm Hg) is always considered hypertension, regardless of your age.

  Of course, the risk of developing hypertension increases with age, but that doesn’t mean high blood pressure is acceptable or safe. Treating hypertension in older adults is just as necessary as it is in younger people.