Obesity and being overweight are becoming major health concerns for Thai people, especially given their direct relationship with hypertension. Statistics show that overweight individuals are twice as likely to develop high blood pressure compared to those with normal weight.

Understanding the Mechanisms of Hypertension

Hypertension occurs due to several bodily changes, particularly in overweight individuals:

1. Changes in Heart Function

• The heart must work harder to pump blood to increased fat mass, causing heart muscles to contract more forcefully, resulting in higher blood pressure.
• Blood volume increases with body mass to supply fat cells, requiring the heart to work harder to pump this increased blood volume.

2. Effects on Blood Vessels

• High blood fat levels cause gradual buildup along vessel walls, narrowing blood vessels.
• Accumulated fat causes blood vessel walls to harden and lose elasticity, preventing normal expansion and contraction.
• When blood vessels narrow and harden, blood flow becomes difficult, requiring the heart to pump harder, leading to increased blood pressure.

3. Hormonal System Changes

• Insulin resistance: Normally, insulin helps dilate blood vessels, but when insulin resistance occurs, blood vessel dilation decreases.
• Autonomic nervous system dysfunction causes faster heartbeat and increased blood vessel constriction.
• Fat cells produce substances that increase sodium retention and stimulate hormones causing blood vessel constriction, leading to higher blood pressure.

What Warning Signs of Hypertension Emergency Should Not Be Ignored?

While many people may not know they have hypertension until diagnosed, the body often sends warning signs that can be detected early:

• Headaches at the base of the skull, especially in the morning.
• Dizziness and vertigo.
• Unusual fatigue.
• Poor sleep quality.
• Heart palpitations and irregular heartbeat.

If you experience these symptoms, especially when overweight, consult a doctor immediately.

Weight Loss Guidelines for Blood Pressure Control

Systematic weight loss is the most effective method for controlling blood pressure, involving these key principles:

1. Dietary Control

• Limit sodium intake to 2,000 mg per day.
• Increase consumption of potassium-rich vegetables and fruits.
• Reduce saturated fats and cholesterol-rich foods.
• Control appropriate caloric intake.

2. Regular Exercise

• Perform aerobic exercise at least 150 minutes per week.
• Increase daily physical activities.
• Practice strength training exercises.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

• Manage stress appropriately.
• Maintain good sleep quality.
• Avoid risk factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption.

However, effective and safe weight loss should be under expert medical supervision. At Chula Doctor Clinic, our expert medical team is ready to provide consultation and plan appropriate weight loss programs tailored to you, helping control hypertension and prevent future complications.

Prevention and Monitoring of Hypertension Risks

For those with hypertension, preventive healthcare is crucial:

1. Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring

• Check blood pressure at least monthly.
• If you have a home blood pressure monitor, measure at the same time daily.
• Record all readings to observe changes.
• Normal blood pressure should be below 140/90 mmHg.

2. Track BMI and Waist Circumference

• Weigh and measure waist circumference monthly.
• Maintain BMI between 18.5-22.9 kg/m².
• Waist circumference should not exceed 90 cm for men and 80 cm for women .
• If measurements exceed standards, consult a doctor for weight loss planning .

3. Regular Annual Health Check-ups

• Blood lipid level tests.
• Blood sugar level tests.
• Kidney function tests.
• Electrocardiogram.
• Eye examination for retinal abnormalities.

4. Consult a Doctor When Abnormalities Occur

• When experiencing symptoms like severe headaches, dizziness, or palpitations.
• When blood pressure readings exceed 140/90 mmHg.
• When weight increases rapidly without known cause.
• If there’s a family history of hypertension, consult a doctor for early prevention planning.

Regular monitoring and prevention help effectively control blood pressure and body weight, reducing the risk of future complications.

Conclusion

Hypertension and being overweight are health issues that shouldn’t be ignored. Hypertension emergency can occur from bodily changes that we might not be able to predict without proper diagnosis and symptoms.

Proper weight loss methods and systematic healthcare are crucial. At Chula Doctor Clinic, our expert medical team is ready to provide comprehensive consultation and treatment plans, with specialized expertise in caring for patients with hypertension and weight issues.

Consult with our medical experts at Chula Doctor Clinic because good health starts with proper and appropriate care.