Arterial hypertension (high blood pressure)

Arterial hypertension (high blood pressure)

What is arterial hypertension?

Arterial hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a widespread cardiovascular disease. It is a permanent increase in pressure in the arteries – the blood vessels that connect the heart to the body. Blood pressure is measured in two values: the systolic (upper) and the diastolic (lower) value. From values of 140/90 mmHg, we speak of high blood pressure.

Why is high blood pressure dangerous?

High blood pressure often goes unnoticed for a long time, but can have serious consequences. The risks include

• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Kidney damage
• Vascular constriction (arteriosclerosis)

If high blood pressure is not recognized or is not lowered sufficiently over a longer period of time, the heart can become permanently overloaded.

Symptoms – or none at all?

Many sufferers don’t notice anything at first. This is what makes high blood pressure so treacherous. Possible signs can be

• Headaches (especially in the morning)
• Dizziness
• Nosebleeds
• Nervousness
• Sleep disturbances

Nevertheless, only a regular blood pressure measurement provides information about the actual value.

Causes of arterial hypertension

In around 90 % of cases, no clear cause can be found – this is referred to as “essential hypertension”. Influencing factors include

• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Stress
• High salt intake
• Excessive alcohol or nicotine consumption
• Genetic predisposition

In rarer cases, there is so-called “secondary hypertension”, for example due to kidney disease or hormonal disorders.

Support options – including modern methods

In addition to proven measures such as weight reduction, exercise and antihypertensive medication, there are modern medical approaches that can provide additional support. One of these is toxopheresis – a special blood purification procedure.

How can toxopheresis help with high blood pressure?

Toxopheresis is a procedure in which “toxic factors” are removed from the blood. These substances are suspected of being involved in inflammatory processes and vascular changes – two factors that can have a negative impact on blood pressure. By relieving the vessels and improving blood circulation, toxopheresis can help to positively influence blood pressure. It is used in specialized clinics, centers and private practices and can be a complementary component, especially in cases of therapy-resistant high blood pressure.

What can you do yourself?

Even without medical intervention, everyone can take action themselves. The most important tips for everyday life:

• Reduce salt: maximum 5 g daily
• Endurance training: e.g. walking, cycling, swimming
• Normalize your weight
• Reduce stress: e.g. through yoga, breathing exercises or mindfulness
• Quit smoking and cut down on alcohol

Conclusion: Take high blood pressure seriously – but don’t fear it

Arterial hypertension is widespread – but it can be easily influenced. If you regularly check your blood pressure, make sure you lead a healthy lifestyle and seek advice if necessary, you can do a lot for your cardiovascular system. Modern procedures such as toxopheresis also offer additional support in certain cases.