High blood pressure in your 20s? Why young adults should not ignore it

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High blood pressure is commonly associated with ageing, but the condition is increasingly becoming a concern among younger adults.

Many people in their 20s and 30s may feel perfectly healthy while their blood pressure remains elevated without obvious symptoms.

This is what makes hypertension particularly dangerous: a person can have high blood pressure and not know it. Left uncontrolled over time, it can damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and brain.

Why can blood pressure rise at a young age?

Several everyday habits and underlying health conditions can contribute to hypertension in younger people.

• High salt intake: Regularly eating packaged snacks, instant noodles, processed foods and meals with excess salt can increase blood pressure.
• Sedentary lifestyle: Spending long hours sitting, studying or working without enough physical activity can raise the risk.
• Chronic stress: Persistent stress may contribute to unhealthy habits and elevated blood pressure.
• Poor sleep: Inadequate sleep and sleep disorders can affect cardiovascular health.
• Excess weight: Being overweight or obese increases the likelihood of developing hypertension.
• Family history: Genetics can also play a role, meaning young people with close relatives who have hypertension may face a higher risk.
• Kidney disorders, hormonal conditions and certain medications can also contribute to high blood pressure.

The biggest warning sign? Often, there are none

One of the most concerning aspects of hypertension is that it usually does not produce noticeable symptoms. A person may continue with their routine without realising that their blood pressure is elevated.

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Headaches, dizziness, or fatigue are sometimes associated with high blood pressure, but they are not reliable ways to identify it. The only dependable way to detect hypertension is through regular blood pressure measurement.

According to the World Health Organization, hypertension in adults is generally diagnosed when readings are consistently at or above 140/90 mmHg on measurements taken on two different days. A single elevated reading does not automatically mean someone has hypertension.

 How can young adults protect themselves?

Preventing high blood pressure does not necessarily require drastic lifestyle changes. Consistent everyday habits can make a significant difference.

• Reduce salt intake and limit highly processed foods.
• Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutritious foods in daily meals.
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity every week.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption.
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule and find healthy ways to manage stress.
• Get blood pressure checked periodically, even when feeling healthy.

When should you seek medical advice?

If repeated blood pressure readings are higher than normal, consult a healthcare professional rather than ignoring them. Young adults with persistently high readings may need evaluation for underlying causes, including kidney or hormonal conditions.

Extremely high readings of around 180/120 mmHg or above require urgent medical attention, particularly when accompanied by chest pain, breathing difficulty, vision changes, confusion or severe headache.

Also Read: Weight training during pregnancy: Experts highlight benefits of strength training for expectant…

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