Did you know that over one in three Singaporeans between age 18 to 74 years has high blood pressure, also known as hypertension? Furthermore, in the 60 to 69 years age group, more than half of the population battles this condition. These statistics emphasise the urgent need to understand how high blood pressure affects our heart health and what steps we can take to manage it effectively.
Keep reading to find out more.
How High Blood Pressure Impacts Your Heart Health
High blood pressure is often described as a silent killer by many cardiologists, as it quietly wreaks havoc on our cardiovascular system. Here are some ways it impacts your heart health:
- Artery Damage: It damages arteries by making them less elastic and this decrease in elasticity impedes the smooth flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, increasing the strain on this vital organ.
- Coronary Artery Disease: Over time, untreated high blood pressure can lead to the development of coronary artery disease. This condition occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrow or blocked, potentially leading to heart attacks.
- Enlarged Heart: Constantly elevated blood pressure also forces the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. This increased workload can result in the enlargement of the heart muscle, a condition known as hypertensive heart disease.
- Increased Risk of Complications: In addition to coronary artery disease and hypertensive heart disease, high blood pressure also heightens the risk of other serious complications such as stroke, kidney failure, and eye disease.
Managing High Blood Pressure: Tips from a Heart Specialist
Luckily, the condition can be prevented or managed by adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Here are some tips by Dr Leslie Tay, a cardiologist at our Mount Elizabeth Novena clinic:
- Healthy Diet: Opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting sodium, saturated fats, and refined sugars.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to help control blood pressure levels and improve overall heart health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and can significantly raise blood pressure. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps you can take to protect your heart health.
- Limit Alcohol Intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and contribute to other cardiovascular problems. Keep alcohol consumption moderate, or better yet, avoid it altogether.
- Prioritise Sleep: Make sure to have 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to support heart health and overall well-being.
- Consult a Heart Doctor: Schedule regular check-ups with a qualified cardiologist to monitor blood pressure levels, assess cardiovascular risk, and receive personalised advice on managing hypertension.
Your Heart Matters
If you are concerned about your blood pressure or heart health, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Leslie Tay Heart Specialist. Our resident heart specialist in Singapore can provide care and support to individuals dealing with hypertension, guiding you towards optimal heart health and overall wellness.
Get in touch with us here.
