Hypertension affecting young adults: Experts

Ranchi: Hypertension, often dubbed the ‘silent killer', shows no symptoms in its early stages but can lead to life-threatening complications, if left unchecked, doctors said on Saturday.

Speaking on the ocassion of World Hypertension Day, civil surgeon Dr Prabhat Kumar said, "The symptoms are not visible in the early stages, yet the disease silently damages vital organs like heart, kidneys, and brain. Sedentary lifestyle, high salt intake, alcohol consumption, chronic stress, and inadequate sleep are major contributors to this crisis."

Hypertension occurs when the body's blood circulation becomes abnormally fast and remains uncontrolled over time. Before full-fledged hypertension sets in, a person may experience a condition called pre-hypertension, marked by fluctuating blood pressure levels. If left unaddressed, it can progress to the middle stage marked by shortness of breath while walking, dizziness, or cognitive difficulties, become pronounced.

Dr Gagan Ranjan of Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims) said, "We are increasingly diagnosing it in patients in their 30s. Daily consumption of fried food, work-related stress, and poor sleep habits are pushing even young adults into the high-risk zone."

The doctors warned against ignoring early warning signs such as persistent fatigue, evening headaches, difficulty in breathing, and increasing forgetfulness. Dr Gagan said, "These seemingly common issues might actually be the early symptoms of hypertension."

Dr NK Singh, National Executive Member at the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India, said, "In today's fast-paced life, it's crucial to take out time for physical activity and mental well-being. Reducing salt intake, avoiding smoking, and going for regular BP check-ups are key steps towards early detection and control."

On Saturday, an awareness rally and seminar was organised at Sadar Hospital to educate people on the causes, symptoms, and prevention of hypertension on the occasion World Hypertension Day. With the theme, "Measure your blood pressure correctly, control it, live longer," the month-long campaign will include free BP and diabetes check-ups, community outreach, and IEC activities.

District Leprosy Prevention Officer cum Nodal Officer NCD Dr Seema Gupta said, "Hypertension can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management."