General data: Hypertension is a predominant modifiable risk factor for mortality and morbidity. 1 billion people are estimated to be hypertensive worldwide, a number that is expected to increase in the coming years as a result of sedentary lifestyles. Half of hypertensive patients are undiagnosed and receive no medication and half of those already diagnosed are receiving inadequate medication.
Diagnosis: according to the definition of hypertension, blood pressure measurements in the doctor's office above 140/90 mmHg are abnormal. The basic requirement is that the measurements must be taken under the correct conditions. More specifically:
- Avoidance of tobacco or caffeine consumption 30 minutes before the measurement
- Avoiding physical exercise 30 minutes before the measurement
- Remain in a quiet room at a temperature comfortable for the subject
- 3-5 minutes of rest before the measurement is recommended
- Avoid talking during the measurement
- Appropriate posture: Back resting on a chair, the hand on which the measurement is taken resting on a table and feet resting on the ground
- A total of 2-3 measurements are taken with 1 minute intervals between them
- Use an appropriately sized cuff and a reliable pressure gauge certified by the European Society of Hypertension
Diagnosis is made either by measuring the patient at home, using a 24-hour blood pressure recorder (Holter), or by measurements in the doctor's office. The 24-hour recording is internationally considered the most reliable method as it significantly reduces the phenomenon of 'White Coat Hypertension'. In addition, it provides information on blood pressure at times when it cannot be measured, e.g. during sleep. Depending on which method is used, the upper normal blood pressure limits are modified.
The clinic provides 24-hour blood pressure recording. A form for home blood pressure measurements is also provided at the end of this page.
Hypertension, if left untreated, can lead to Coronary Heart Disease, Stroke, Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation, Chronic Kidney Disease, Peripheral Artery Disease and Dementia. Early diagnosis and proper treatment of Hypertension significantly reduces the risk of complications.
Non-pharmacological management of Hypertension includes the following:
- Daily Physical Exercise for 30 minutes
- 30 minutes of physical activity per day for 30 minutes
- Reduction in body weight by 5%
- Restriction of intake of animal saturated fatty acidsv
- Increased intake of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Replace baked goods, pasta and rice with whole grain products
- Restricting sugar intake
- Implementation of the Mediterranean diet
- Restriction of alcohol consumption
- Stop smoking
- Adequate rest
In case of failure of the Hygienic Dietary Measures, medication is initiated by the attending physician. The treatment is individualised according to the characteristics and peculiarities of each patient.
