High blood pressure—also known as hypertension—is often called the “silent killer” for a reason. It typically has no obvious symptoms, yet it significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and other serious health problems. In the Middle East, including the UAE, lifestyle changes, stress, and dietary habits are contributing to rising rates of this silent condition.
What Is Hypertension?
Hypertension occurs when the force of the blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mm Hg. Readings consistently above 130/80 mm Hg may indicate high blood pressure and warrant medical attention.
Why Is Hypertension So Common in the Middle East?
Several regional and lifestyle-related factors contribute to the high prevalence of hypertension:
- Sedentary lifestyles and limited physical activity
- High salt intake and fast-food consumption
- Obesity and poor dietary habits
- Chronic stress, especially in urban environments
- Undiagnosed cases due to lack of regular health checkups
- According to regional studies, as many as 1 in 3 adults in the UAE may have elevated blood pressure—many without even knowing it.
Health Risks Associated with Uncontrolled Hypertension
When left untreated, high blood pressure silently damages your body over time. Some of the major complications include:
- Heart attack and heart failure
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Vision problems
- Cognitive decline
How Is Hypertension Diagnosed?
The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to check it regularly. At Health Shield Medical Center, we offer:
- Routine blood pressure monitoring
- 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure testing
- Personalized lifestyle and treatment plans
Managing Hypertension: Prevention and Treatment
Good news: Hypertension can often be managed—or even reversed—with lifestyle changes and proper medical care.
Here’s how we help patients take control:
- Nutrition Counseling – Reduce salt and processed foods
- Weight Management Support – Maintain a healthy BMI
- Stress Reduction – Mindfulness, breathing exercises, and support services
- Regular Exercise Guidance – Even 30 minutes a day helps
- Medication Management – If required, we prescribe and monitor appropriate medication
Don’t Let It Go Unchecked
Hypertension doesn’t cause pain or discomfort until it’s already doing harm. That’s why we encourage regular screenings—even if you feel fine.
Book Your Blood Pressure Screening Today
Don’t wait for symptoms. Visit Health Shield Medical Center for a quick, non-invasive blood pressure check and a personalized consultation with our expert physicians.
