Hidden Danger: Hypertension, the sneaky high blood pressure, looms large over the health of Indian women. Its footprint is expanding year by year. Startling figures disclose that around 25% to 30% of Indian women grapple with hypertension, casting a shadow on public health. The culprits? A sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, stress and genetic tendencies. What’s more, hypertension often operates incognito, only revealing itself in advanced stages. Early detection through regular monitoring is an essential tool in its management.
In a recent global overview by the “ahajournals”, the prevalence of hypertension among women and men aged 30 to 79 years was 32% and 34%, respectively. Diagnosis, treatment and control rates were 59%, 47%and 23% in hypertensive women and 49%, 38%and 18% in hypertensive men.
According to the Deccan Herald newspapers survey, the southern states have a slightly higher prevalence, with Kerala topping the list with nearly 31% (national average is 21%) followed by Telangana (26%), Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu (each having close to 25% prevalence).
Roots and Signs: The saga of hypertension, or high blood pressure, is woven into the fabric of Indian women’s health. A variety of factors laid the groundwork, from genetics to lifestyle choices and underlying medical conditions. Sedentary routines, salt overindulgence, obesity, stress, smoking, tippling and saturated fats in diets are notorious enablers. Hormonal changes during menopause also give this foe an upper hand. Beware the subtle signs, as symptoms might not surface until hypertension is in full swing. Persistent headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, or breathlessness should not be taken lightly. Regular blood pressure checks can prevent heart disease and stroke.
In women common risk factors and sex-specific risk factors can impact burdens in HTN and CVD. Common risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, increased salt intake, diabetes and alcohol use. Relationships between weight and BP are secure: 20–30% of HTN is related to overweight/obesity, with 2–6-fold increase in HTN prevalence when overweight. Weight loss is directly associated with a reduction in CV risk factors, including HTN: 5–10% weight loss lowers BP in hypertensive.
Guarding Health: Safeguarding health entails preventing and managing hypertension’s grip. Lifestyle overhaul is the game-changer. Yoga emerges as a potent ally, throttling down blood pressure levels. A diet well-stocked with fruits, veggies, whole grains and low-fat dairy is a formidable weapon against high blood pressure. Cutting sodium intake and moderating alcohol consumption are the unsung heroes of prevention. For those ensnared, healthcare professionals dish out prescriptions to tame the beast. While a full cure eludes us, hypertension bows down before a holistic lifestyle fortified by medical wisdom.
From 121/81mmHg to 139/89mmHg the blood pressure readings could mean you’re at risk of developing high blood pressure. Everyone’s blood pressure will be slightly different. Physical activity is crucial to prevent hypertension. The more exercise you get, the better, but even a little bit can help control blood pressure. 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity is recommended.
Dampening Fertility: The tale takes a new twist as hypertension plays a role in female fertility. This silent troublemaker can put the brakes on conception and smooth pregnancies. The villain of the story? Constricted blood vessels chip away at the blood flow that fuels organs like ovaries and the uterus. Menstrual cycles falter, ovulation stumbles and fertility take a hit. Adding insult to injury, hypertension often invites its friends – PCOS and diabetes – to the party, further entangling the fertility web. The key lies in effective management through medicine, lifestyle choices and stress-busting yoga.
Hypertension can damage the arteries and organs, including the reproductive organs and can lead to fertility problems and complications during pregnancy. Hypertension is a leading cause of miscarriages and stillbirths. Pre-eclampsia a condition cause by hypertension that can be dangerous for both mother and baby. Hypertension can also make it difficult to become pregnant in the first place. Women with hypertension are at an increased risk of ovulatory disorders and uterine fibroids. Due to reduced egg quality or quantity they may also have difficulty in conceiving.
According to the Centres for Diseases Control and Prevention, Women with high blood pressure who become pregnant are more likely to have complications during pregnancy than those with normal blood pressure. Premature delivery, low birth weight babies and other mother organs can harm because of High blood pressure during pregnancy.
As per Go Red for Women, A common misconception is that high blood pressure (HBP or hypertension) rarely affects women. Women who are just 10 Kgs or more overweight, have a family history of HBP or have reached menopause are known to increase a woman’s risk.
Yoga and Diet: Power Combo for Hypertension Management
Yoga’s Embrace: When combating hypertension, Indian women find solace in the arms of yoga and a balanced diet. Yoga emerges as a knight in shining armour, slashing blood pressure levels and championing cardiovascular health. Poses like Sukhasana, Padahastasana and Shavasana prove to be potent stress-busters, harmonizing the rhythm of life. Meanwhile, a nutrient-rich diet is an artillery against the battle within. Fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean proteins rally against the high-pressure invasion. Steer clear of sodium-heavy and sugary indulgences and victory will inch closer. Through these transformational choices, Indian women reclaim their well-being while holding hypertension. at bay.
If you have hypertension, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to manage your condition before trying to conceive. Hypertension can have a major impact on fertility and pregnancy, but there is hope. By raising awareness about the silent threat that hypertension poses to fertility and pregnancy outcomes and lifestyle changes like diet modification and regular exercise, it’s possible to reduce your risk of developing hypertension in the first place
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