As lifestyles evolve, hypertension has become increasingly prevalent. In China, over 30% of individuals aged 35 and above have high blood pressure. Middle-aged and older adults, people who are overweight, and those with a family history of cardiovascular disease are at higher risk. Hypertension is closely associated with arteriosclerosis. Proper blood pressure management and early intervention can help mitigate this risk, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
The Link Between Hypertension and Arteriosclerosis
Hypertension is a key factor in the development of arteriosclerosis. Persistently high blood pressure places continuous strain on blood vessels, leading to vascular damage, plaque accumulation, and arterial stiffness, which can impair heart function.
Vascular Damage: Chronic hypertension weakens the endothelium, causing thickening of the vessel walls and increasing susceptibility to plaque buildup.
Plaque Formation and Arterial Narrowing: Over time, plaque deposits restrict blood flow, raising the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Clinical Consequences: Long-term arteriosclerosis can lead to severe conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Research indicates:
69% of individuals experiencing their first heart attack have hypertension.
77% of first-time stroke patients have high blood pressure.
74% of congestive heart failure patients are hypertensive.
Recognizing Early Signs and Symptoms
Hypertension often remains asymptomatic until it leads to significant cardiovascular issues. However, arteriosclerosis can present distinct symptoms as it progresses.
Early Symptoms of Hypertension:
Head: Morning headaches, particularly at the back of the head, may indicate elevated intracranial pressure.
Heart: Chest tightness during physical exertion could signal reduced blood supply to the heart.
Limbs: A systolic blood pressure difference of more than 15 mmHg between arms may suggest subclavian artery stenosis.
Common Symptoms of Arteriosclerosis (Organ Ischemia):
Heart: Persistent chest pain lasting over 15 minutes may indicate myocardial ischemia.
Brain: Sudden speech difficulties or limb numbness can be early signs of stroke.
Legs: Severe calf pain after walking may suggest peripheral artery disease.
Other symptoms of arteriosclerosis include palpitations, shortness of breath, cognitive impairment, and numbness. Severe cases may lead to heart attacks, strokes, or peripheral artery complications.
Preventive Measures Against Arteriosclerosis
Balanced Diet: Reducing sodium intake and increasing consumption of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support normal blood pressure levels.
Regular Physical Activity: Moderate exercise aids in weight management, enhances cardiovascular function, and lowers hypertension risk.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to vascular damage and elevate the risk of hypertension and arteriosclerosis.
The Importance of Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring
Consistent blood pressure monitoring is essential for effective hypertension management. Key times to measure blood pressure include:
Morning: One hour after waking, after sitting quietly for five minutes, to obtain stable readings.
Evening: Before taking medication, avoiding measurement immediately after meals or physical activity.
Clinical Validation: Certified under the EU MDR, with select models approved by the European Society of Hypertension (ESH).
Smart Connectivity: Syncs with smartphones via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, enabling remote health monitoring.
Individuals with hypertension may experience vascular aging 10–15 years beyond their chronological age. Early identification of high-risk individuals and personalized health management can help slow the progression of arteriosclerosis. Utilizing clinically validated blood pressure monitors is a fundamental step in proactive cardiovascular care.
