Weather Plays Small Role in Hypertension Cases

Baguio City (PNA) — Dr. Angelita Go, Medical Specialist of the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) on Wednesday said only a small percentage of hypertension cases may be attributed to the present weather condition.

Go explained that hypertension is symptom-less but could be fatal as complications may result to heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and aneurysm.

Go added that in 2015, at least 250 patients were admitted at BGHMC from the 2,000 who sought relief from hypertension.

Quoting hospital statistics, Go said that one in every four Filipinos is afflicted with hypertension.

Go explained that an individual may be experiencing hypertension if he is having a headache, chest pain, blurry vision and may eventually lose consciousness.

These may prompt an individual to schedule a check-up, Go said.

A regular check on an individual’s blood pressure could reveal hypertension in its first stages; when systolic rate is 140 and diastolic rate is 90.

A 130/80 systole – diastole rate is deemed normal for most, Go added.

Hypertension is detected when the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated.

Genetics play a big part in a person’s having hypertension, with lifestyle and social environment; excess salt intake, excess body weight, smoking, alcohol intake being part of the risk factors, Go said.

A small percentage of hypertension could be traced to having chronic kidney disease and endocrine disorder.

Complications from hypertension could be preventable, as with the disease itself, Go said. (PNA) BNB/JOJOLAMARIA