Managing Cardiac Health: Dr. Anand Lingan’s Insights on Hypertension and Heart Health
4 min read
Mysore – In honor of World Hypertension Day, Mysooru News had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Anand Lingan, Consultant Cardiologist at Narayana Hospital, Mysore. In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Anandlingan shares insights on hypertension, its effects on the heart, and effective management strategies to keep the heart healthy.
Mysooru News: Can you explain what hypertension is and why it is such a significant health concern for the heart?
Dr. Anand Lingan: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is when the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this pressure can damage blood vessels and the heart, leading to severe health problems such as heart disease, heart attacks, and heart failure. It’s often called “the silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms, making early detection and management crucial to prevent cardiovascular complications.
Mysooru News: How does hypertension specifically affect the heart and cardiovascular system?
Dr. Anand Lingan: Hypertension puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, making them work harder to pump blood. This can cause the heart muscle to thicken and become less efficient, leading to conditions like left ventricular hypertrophy. High blood pressure can also damage the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, which can result in heart attacks and strokes. Chronic hypertension can ultimately lead to heart failure if not properly managed.
Mysooru News: What are the common symptoms of hypertension that people should be aware of?
Dr. Anand Lingan: Hypertension often has no noticeable symptoms. However, in some cases, individuals might experience headaches, shortness of breath, chest pain, or nosebleeds. These symptoms usually do not occur until hypertension has reached a severe or life-threatening stage, highlighting the importance of regular blood pressure checks.
Mysooru News: How is hypertension diagnosed, and how often should people get their blood pressure checked?
Dr. Anand Lingan: Hypertension is diagnosed through blood pressure measurement. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher on multiple occasions typically indicates hypertension. Adults should have their blood pressure checked at least once every two years if their levels are normal (less than 120/80 mmHg). Those with higher readings or risk factors should have more frequent checks as advised by their healthcare provider.
Mysooru News: What lifestyle changes can help manage or prevent hypertension and its impact on heart health?
Dr. Anand Lingan: Lifestyle changes are fundamental in managing and preventing hypertension and its cardiovascular effects. These include maintaining a healthy diet low in salt and fat, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga. These changes can significantly reduce blood pressure and improve overall heart health.
Mysooru News: What role do medications play in the treatment of hypertension, particularly in protecting the heart?
Dr. Anand Lingan: Medications are often necessary when lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient to control blood pressure. They help lower and maintain blood pressure at a safe level, reducing the strain on the heart and preventing further damage. Common medications include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. The choice of medication depends on the individual’s overall health and any other conditions they may have.
Mysooru News: What complications can arise from uncontrolled hypertension related to the heart?
Dr. Anand Lingan: Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to several serious heart-related issues, including heart attacks, heart failure, arrhythmias, and atherosclerosis. It can also cause damage to the coronary arteries, leading to coronary artery disease. Over time, the heart can become enlarged and weakened, significantly impacting its ability to function effectively.
Mysooru News: Are there any new treatments or research developments in the field of hypertension that are particularly promising for heart health?
Dr. Anand Lingan: Yes, there are several promising developments. Advances in personalized medicine are allowing for more tailored treatment plans. New medications and combination therapies are being developed to improve efficacy and reduce side effects. Research into the genetic factors of hypertension is also providing deeper insights, potentially leading to better prevention and treatment strategies specifically targeting cardiovascular health.
Mysooru News: Finally, Dr. Anandlingan, what message would you like to convey to our readers on World Hypertension Day?
Dr. Anand Lingan: On World Hypertension Day, I urge everyone to take their heart health seriously. Regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and adherence to treatment plans if you have hypertension are crucial. Awareness and early intervention can save lives. Let’s work together to combat this silent killer and promote a healthier future for all.
For more information on hypertension and heart health, visit Narayana Hospital’s website or contact their healthcare professionals. Stay informed and take proactive steps towards a healthier life.
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