Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a widespread condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is abnormally high and persists over time. This condition is particularly dangerous because it often develops without noticeable symptoms, allowing it to silently damage the body over years—earning it the nickname “the silent killer.” Hypertension forces the heart and blood vessels to work harder and less efficiently. Over time, the increased pressure causes damage to the delicate tissues inside the arteries. In response, LDL (bad) cholesterol forms plaque in the tiny tears of the artery walls, marking the beginning of atherosclerosis. As plaque builds up, the arteries narrow, which in turn raises blood pressure even further. This creates a vicious cycle that can lead to serious complications, including heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure. Risk factors for developing hypertension include poor diet (high in salt and low in fruits and vegetables), physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and genetics, with a family history of high blood pressure significantly increasing one’s risk.
Traditional Chinese Medicine for Hypertension
At Axis Acupuncture, our practitioners use Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to offer personalized treatments for managing hypertension. Here’s why we recommend TCM for individuals with high blood pressure:
• STRESS REDUCTION
• NATURAL REMEDIES
• HOLISTIC APPROACH
• PREVENTATIVE FOCUS
Common Symptoms Of Hypertension
Headaches
Severe hypertension can cause headaches or migraines due to increased pressure in the brain’s arteries. These headaches, often occurring in the morning, may indicate dangerously high blood pressure. While not all headaches signal high blood pressure, persistent or severe headaches in those with hypertension or at risk of it should prompt blood pressure checks and potentially adjustments in treatment.
Vision Problems
Hypertension can cause changes in the blood vessels of the eye, a condition called hypertensive retinopathy. Symptoms may include blurred vision or other visual disturbances, caused by narrowed vessels, bleeding in the eye, or swelling of the optic nerve. Vision issues due to high blood pressure are a warning that blood pressure is not well-controlled and is affecting organs, requiring immediate medical attention to prevent severe complications, including permanent vision loss.
Shortness of Breath
High blood pressure can damage the heart, leading to heart disease, which may manifest as shortness of breath. This symptom may occur during physical activity or even at rest in more severe cases. It indicates that the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently is compromised, either by thickening of the heart muscle or the onset of heart failure. Shortness of breath requires prompt evaluation to determine the cause and begin appropriate treatment.
Chest Pain or Angina
Chest pain, or angina, may occur in individuals with hypertension due to coronary artery disease, a complication of high blood pressure. This pain often feels like a pressure or squeezing sensation, typically triggered by physical exertion or stress. It occurs because the narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the heart muscle, preventing it from receiving enough oxygen. This symptom is a serious red flag, signaling the risk of a heart attack, and requires immediate medical attention.
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