Although once thought to be an “old people’s disease,” high blood pressure has now become common within young adult populations. Now, many young adults are suffering in silence. Some don’t even know they have high blood pressure because it comes without any noticeable symptoms.
According to a WHO report, 46% of people have the disease, and they are unaware of the fact. Your diet, lack of exercise, genetics, and poor lifestyle are key contributors to high blood pressure. But ignoring it may lead to heart damage, kidney failure, or even stroke. But, early and accurate diagnosis can make a difference. This blog explores how young adults can manage this condition.
Top Causes of Developing High Blood Pressure in Young Adults
In Arizona and its surrounding areas, a common condition among young adults is high blood pressure. Although many people are aware of it, they still don’t give it much importance. But, if they fail to seek help from a cardiology specialist Suncity, high blood pressure can become the cause of other severe diseases. Here are the major causes of developing high BP.
Alcohol Consumption
Whether someone relies on alcohol, it causes high blood pressure and stress. Regular use may affect kidney function and hormonal regulation. This can also damage arteries in young adults.
Obesity
A body with excess weight puts more strain on the heart and arteries. Additionally, fat cells produce chemicals that can elevate your blood pressure. Individuals who are obese are also more prone to develop insulin resistance. It further increases the high risk of hypertension.
High Salt Intake
Processed foods and take-out meals often contain excessive amounts of salt. Therefore, excessive sodium intake can cause the body to retain water. It can increase blood volume and eventually blood pressure. Nowadays, young adults’ busy lifestyles can lead to unknowing consumption of high-salt-infused food several times.
Smoking
The use of tobacco is quite common in cities like Goodyear and Buckeye. It causes damage to the artery wall. This leads to premature hardening of the arteries. Also, when you smoke repeatedly, it can become chronic over time. Then, high blood pressure can lead to the development of other cardiovascular conditions.
Lack of Physical Activity
A poor lifestyle, characterised by a lack of physical activity, weakens your heart. Then, your heart has to work harder to move the blood. Additionally, physical inactivity contributes to excess weight and increases insulin resistance. Additionally, young adults with long work hours or excessive screen time are likely to miss daily physical activity.
Genetics
If you live in Phoenix and hypertension runs in your family, you are at higher risk of developing it even at a younger age. You can’t change your genes. However, consistent monitoring and a healthy lifestyle can reduce the probability of developing high blood pressure in your adult life.
Signs of Having High Blood Pressure in Young Adults
Hypertension often remains hidden until it is pretty serious. For young adults, early detection by a cardiologist specialist in Suncity is crucial. Symptoms, if present, might include:
- Morning headaches that occur frequently
- Nosebleeds
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Flushed face
- Chronic exhaustion
- Persistent chest discomfort
- Heart palpitations or an inconsistent heartbeat.
In more extreme situations, high blood pressure may give you signs like:
- Blurred or impaired vision
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion
How to Control High Blood Pressure in Young Individuals?
Avoiding the risks of high blood pressure at a young age is achievable with simple lifestyle adjustments. Many people put off addressing emerging problems until it is too late. But, taking action now reaps benefits in the long run, especially in protecting the heart. Below is helpful information on how to prevent high blood pressure.
Avoid Smoking
Blood pressure levels can increase whenever someone smokes. Smoking is responsible for the destruction of blood vessels and the acceleration of the hardening of arteries. So, you must avoid smoking if you want your heart to stay healthy. Replace the habit with a positive alternative. The sooner you take action, the faster you can lower your BP.
Stop Consuming Alcohol
Alcohol raises blood pressure and disrupts normal heart rhythm. So, stop drinking alcohol as it poses the most significant risk. Reducing or stopping altogether leads to improved cardiovascular health. Switch to lemon water, herbal drinks, or any other preferred mocktails. Within a few weeks, both your body and mind will begin to feel the positive effects.
Visit a Cardiologist to Get Medicine
A specialist can identify the condition at early stages and start treatment when necessary. In some cases, early medication is beneficial, especially when there is a family history of the condition. The best cardiologists in Suncity provide customised strategies. So, don’t self-medicate and let a trained professional manage accurate follow-ups for safe treatments.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Prioritise fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Lower your consumption of salt, fried foods, processed foods, sugary drinks, and sugar. Adopting a balanced diet helps maintain good health and supports effective weight management. Small meal adjustments can have a positive long-term impact on high blood pressure.
Exercise Regularly
Aerobic exercises strengthen the heart. Therefore, aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes, five days a week. Walking, cycling, yoga, and any form of movement are beneficial. Consistency in workouts helps lower stress, maintain stable blood pressure, and contribute to overall health.
Handle Stress
High blood pressure has a link to chronic stress. So, manage stressors with techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in hobbies. Prevent burnout with breaks. Remember, your mental health and physical health are intertwined. Therefore, managing stress is crucial for maintaining one’s heart health and overall well-being.
Conclusion
Like many medical conditions, high blood pressure is common among younger adults. If left unchecked, it could be dangerous. However, with the right expert help, early detection, and healthy habits, you can effectively manage it. So, do not wait for symptoms; adopt a few routine changes, and begin to monitor your health.
If you live in Suncity and are seeking the best cardiologists in the Area, contact Advanced Cardiovascular Centre. With a few clicks, you can book an online consultation. The team of specialists is capable of offering the best treatments.
FAQs
Can diet help in managing high blood pressure?
Yes, a proper diet that excludes excess salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats helps lower blood pressure. Additionally, a diet prosperous in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports heart health and blood circulation.
When should young adults visit a cardiologist?
Frequent headaches, chest pain, fatigue, and a family history of heart disease are some of the signs that young adults need to see a cardiologist. Early consultations help manage hidden risks early.
Can stress increase your blood pressure?
Yes, temporary spikes in blood pressure due to stress are common, resulting from constricted blood vessels and increased heart rate. So, chronic stress, if unmanaged, can cause long-term hypertension.
Do physically active young adults develop high blood pressure?
Having an active lifestyle does not make a person immune to high blood pressure brought on by genetics, diet, or underlying health issues. So, regular check-ups become essential to uncover any silent symptoms.
How can you control high BP in young adults?
With medication, lifestyle changes, and constant monitoring, high blood pressure is manageable. Not smoking, exercising, managing stress, and eating healthy all aid in keeping BP levels within the normal range.
Ref:
https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/causes-of-high-blood-pressure-in-young-adults
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.119.13820
https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/high-blood-pressure-young-men.html