5 Common Myths about Hypertension

High blood pressure or hypertension is one of the leading causes of sickness and death among Filipinos. It's a major risk factor that leads to cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and kidney failure. Because of this, we’d like to shed light on what's true and what's not about the condition so people would know if they're at risk. 

Myth: Symptoms of high blood pressure are obvious. 

Fact: You may be suffering from high blood pressure for years without knowing it. The condition is often referred to as "the silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms. The best way to detect hypertension early is regular blood pressure checks.  

Myth: Hypertension isn't serious.

Fact: Hypertension may have become increasingly common today, but if left unchecked, it can lead to a range of serious health issues like stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, and vision loss.  

Myth: High blood pressure is unavoidable if inherited.

Fact: While having a genetic component, hypertension can still be delayed or prevented by committing to a healthy lifestyle such as proper diet, increased physical activity, and limited alcohol intake. 

Myth: Avoiding table salt lowers chances of high blood pressure.

Fact: While excessive sodium in the diet can lead to high blood pressure, putting down the salt dispenser is not enough to limit overall salt intake. Most sodium is hidden in a wide range of foods, which includes pizzas, sandwiches, cold cuts, canned meats, and breakfast cereals. That's why it's important to read food labels.  

Myth: Hypertension medications can be stopped once blood pressure normalizes. 

Fact: Hypertension can be a lifelong condition. By skipping your medication or not following the doctor's advice, your blood pressure may rise again and could increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

If you're experiencing symptoms of hypertension or already living with some type of heart condition, allow our team of doctors to help you manage it. To schedule an appointment, contact us at 0917-631-4620. We also offer packages for heart health and hypertension at RelianceHeart. To know more about this dedicated cardiovascular clinic, click here.

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