What Is the Prognosis of Hypertension?

The prognosis of hypertension depends on how severe your condition is and how long you have had it. It is affected by other conditions such as diabetes. Most of the time it can be controlled by lifestyle changes, medication or a combination of both. But a large percentage of people with hypertension are unaware that they have it.

The Facts

• Hypertension refers to high blood pressure. There may not be symptoms for many years, which is why hypertension is known as the silent killer. High blood pressure that is not controlled can lead to very serious consequences, including heart attack, stroke, aneurysm or kidney damage. Hypertension can permanently damage your eyes, heart, kidneys and brain before you ever feel anything.

Significance

• According to Merck Manuals, more than 65 million Americans have hypertension, and this condition develops in over half of people over the age of 75. It is estimated that only about 70 percent of people in the United States with hypertension have been diagnosed. Of those that are diagnosed, less than 60 percent have adequately controlled blood pressure. You have a much poorer prognosis if you have hypertension and don't know it, or if you receive inadequate treatment.

Complications

• The higher your blood pressure and the longer it is uncontrolled, the more damage can occur. The tissue that makes up the artery walls is repeatedly stretched beyond a healthy limit, leading to vascular weakness, vascular scarring and increased risk of blood clots. The heart is forced to work harder, and there may be tissue and organ damage. If you have hypertension, you may have metabolic syndrome, which is a collection of disorders including high triglycerides, high waist circumference, low "good" cholesterol or HDL and high blood pressure. The more components of metabolic syndrome you have, the more at risk you are for heart attack and stroke.

Prevention/Solution

• Lifestyle changes can help prevent and control hypertension. Your diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit salt and alcohol and increase physical activity. If you are a smoker, it's important to quit. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you are overweight, even a 5-lb. weight loss can reduce hypertension.

Considerations

• A single high blood pressure reading doesn't mean you have hypertension, but it does mean that you should continue to monitor your readings. Check with your doctor to find out how often to check your blood pressure. The earlier hypertension is diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis.