How does high blood pressure affect the heart?
HEART HEALTH
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Over time, high blood pressure can have several negative effects on the heart and overall cardiovascular health, including:
Damage to the arteries: High blood pressure can cause the inner lining of the arteries to become damaged and less elastic. This damage makes it easier for fatty deposits to accumulate, leading to atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Increased workload on the heart: When blood pressure is high, the heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. This increased workload can cause the heart muscle to thicken and stiffen over time, a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). LVH can lead to heart failure, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), and even sudden cardiac death.
Heart failure: Prolonged high blood pressure can weaken the heart muscle and reduce its ability to pump blood effectively. As a result, the heart may not be able to meet the body's demands for oxygen and nutrients, leading to heart failure.
Coronary artery disease: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup. This reduced blood flow can cause chest pain (angina) or a heart attack.
Atrial fibrillation: Long-standing hypertension can increase the risk of atrial fibrillation, an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can lead to stroke, heart failure, and other complications.
It is essential to manage high blood pressure through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication prescribed by a healthcare professional. Regular blood pressure monitoring and checkups are crucial for early detection and treatment of hypertension to minimize its impact on heart health.