There are several causes of high blood pressure. Primary or essential hypertension is one of them. However, it is not fully known what causes this primary hypertension. Various misconceptions about high blood pressure. For example-
- Neck pain as a symptom: Some individuals mistakenly associate neck pain with high blood pressure. However, in most cases, there are no symptoms of high blood pressure. Neck pain is usually caused by issues with the joints or muscles.
- Avoiding milk and eggs: There is a misconception that consuming milk, eggs, and meat can increase blood pressure. As a matter of fact, individuals with high blood pressure should avoid consuming fatty foods (such as full-fat dairy and fatty meats) and excessive salt, rather than eliminating milk and eggs from their diet.
- Sour foods reducing blood pressure: Some people believe that consuming tamarind or tamarind water can decrease blood pressure. However, if these foods are consumed with salt, they can actually increase blood pressure.
- Fried salt or increased salt in cooking: Some individuals resort to lightly frying salt or increasing the salt content in their cooking, thinking it would be acceptable for their high blood pressure. Regardless of how it is consumed, excessive salt intake can elevate blood pressure.
- Discontinuing medication when blood pressure is normal: Many patients with high blood pressure stop taking their medication once their blood pressure levels normalized. However, abruptly discontinuing high blood pressure medication can lead to adverse reactions, including potentially life-threatening complications.
- No symptoms, no need for medication: Some individuals believe that if their body feels fine despite having high blood pressure, they do not need to take medication. While high blood pressure often lacks noticeable symptoms, it gradually increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, blindness, and kidney failure.
Understanding the truth about high blood pressure and dispelling these misconceptions is crucial for effectively managing and treating the condition.
