Is having hypertension considered as a high risk for Covid-19?

Growing data shows a higher risk of COVID-19 infections and complications in people with high blood pressure. Analysis of early data from both China and the U.S. shows that high blood pressure is the most commonly shared pre-existing condition among those hospitalized, affecting between 30% to 50% of the patients.

How is hypertension diagnosed CDC?

High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, so the only way to know if you have it is to get your blood pressure measured.

How would you educate a patient about high blood pressure?

Lifestyle and home remedies

1. Eat healthy foods. Eat a heart-healthy diet.
2. Decrease the salt in your diet. Aim to limit sodium to less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) a day or less.
3. Maintain a healthy weight.
4. Increase physical activity.
5. Limit alcohol.
6. Don’t smoke.
7. Manage stress.
8. Monitor your blood pressure at home.

Does COVID-19 affect blood pressure?

If you get COVID-19, can it affect your blood pressure? It really depends. Infection places your body under significant stress, so an increase or decrease in blood pressure may occur — especially if the infection worsens your kidney function.

How do you tell someone they have high blood pressure?

Tell the patient what they need to know (e.g., when they should take the medication, expected side effects, importance of taking it as directed). Use simple words and diagrams or pictures. Ask the patient to repeat back the information in their own words.

What health problems are associated with high blood pressure?

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to complications including:

• Heart attack or stroke.
• Aneurysm.
• Heart failure.
• Weakened and narrowed blood vessels in your kidneys.
• Thickened, narrowed or torn blood vessels in the eyes.
• Metabolic syndrome.
• Trouble with memory or understanding.
• Dementia.

How often do we need to be tested for hypertension?

If your blood pressure is normal (less than 120/80), get it checked at least every 2 years. If your blood pressure is borderline high (called prehypertension) — systolic blood pressure between 120 and 139 or diastolic blood pressure of 80 to 89 — check it at least every year.

How can hypertension be diagnosed?

Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure consistently measures >130 mmHg systolic and >80 mmHg diastolic. Blood pressure is measured using a blood pressure cuff, which is a non-invasive device that can detect the pressure inside your arteries, conveying numerical values using a sphygmomanometer or an electronic device.

How can I tell my healthcare provider about my hypertension?

Tell your healthcare provider about your hypertension by telling him if you have any signs or symptoms such as blurred vision. Tell him if you have other diseases or medical conditions. Your healthcare provider needs to know if you have a family history of heart disease, kidney disease or diabetes.

What can a person reduce the risk of hypertension?

Exercise is a good way for people with pre-hypertension or slightly high blood pressure from turning into fully developed hypertension. Aerobic exercise including walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, or jogging is the most effective for reducing blood pressure.