ICD-10 · I10
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Hypertension means blood pressure stays at or above 140/90 mmHg. It is largely symptomless but is the single largest contributor to strokes and heart attacks in India, and roughly half of people with it are unaware they have it.
Symptoms
Usually none. When present: headaches (often early morning), dizziness, nosebleeds, blurred vision, chest discomfort or breathlessness. These typically appear only at very high readings.
Causes & risk factors
Age, family history, a high-salt diet, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, chronic stress, alcohol, smoking, kidney disease, thyroid disorders and sleep apnoea. Indian diets high in pickles, papad and packaged snacks push sodium well beyond the 5 g/day WHO limit.
Diagnosis
Two or more elevated readings on separate visits, ideally confirmed with home monitoring or 24-hour ambulatory measurement. Baseline tests include ECG, kidney function, electrolytes, urine protein, fasting lipids and blood sugar.
Treatment options
Common Indian first-line drugs are amlodipine (calcium channel blocker), telmisartan or losartan (ARBs), and low-dose diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide. Beta blockers like atenolol are used in specific situations. Cutting salt to under 5 g/day, losing weight, regular walking and limiting alcohol can lower systolic pressure by 5–15 mmHg on their own.
When to see a doctor
Readings above 180/120 mmHg, chest pain, sudden severe headache, weakness on one side, difficulty speaking, or breathlessness — these need emergency care.