Hypertension in Young Adults: An Emerging Concern

The dangerous condition known as hypertension, or high blood pressure, is no longer limited to the elderly. In India’s healthcare system, hypertension in young adults is becoming more prevalent. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has reported that almost one in five adults between the ages of 20 and 40 suffers from high blood pressure, frequently without realising it. If ignored, this silent health risk can lead to long-term problems like kidney damage, heart disease, and stroke.

What Is Hypertension In Young Adults?

Hypertension in young adults is a condition in which individuals aged between 18 and 40 have persistently elevated blood pressure. Blood pressure means the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of a person’s blood vessels. When this pressure remains high over time, it can lead to health complications.

Blood pressure, which is in the range of 120/80 mm Hg, is usually regarded as normal. Multiple readings above 130/80 mmHg could be considered hypertension. Although early onset is becoming more prevalent because of shifting lifestyles and stress levels, it usually develops gradually over the years.

What causes high blood pressure in young adults?

While there is no definite cause of hypertension in young adults, Multiple causes of hypertension in young adults have been identified. These range from lifestyle factors to genetic predispositions. Some of the most common causes of hypertension in young adults are:

1. Leading an unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle is said to be one of the biggest causes of high blood pressure.
2. Sodium intake beyond the prescribed limit can lead to high blood pressure.
3. Becoming overweight increases, the risk of developing hypertension at a younger age.
4. Regular alcohol and tobacco use are said to be a leading reason for high BP in young age.
5. Chronic stress increases adrenaline levels, which can temporarily raise blood pressure but eventually lead to persistent hypertension.
6. Family history and genetics can also influence the onset of hypertension.

What Are the Risk Factors for High BP At Young Age?

The causes of high BP in young age are further exacerbated by associated risk factors such as:

1. Poor sleep quality: Sleep apnea and insomnia can be one of the leading causes of Hypertension in young adults and general blood pressure fluctuations.
2. Unhealthy diet: A diet high in trans fats and cholesterol can affect heart health negatively.
3. Underlying diseases: Metabolic disorders such as diabetes and insulin resistance can cause high blood pressure.
4. Drugs: Various over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers and Decongestants are said to raise blood pressure.

What are the symptoms of hypertension in young adults?

Young hypertension causes numerous health complications throughout the body. Most cases of hypertension in young adults go unnoticed, which is also the reason why it is dubbed as a “silent killer.” Nonetheless, in some cases, the following signs can be observed:

1. Headaches, particularly in the morning.
2. Blurred or double vision.
3. Shortness of breath
4. Dizziness
5. Chest discomfort
6. Fatigue without exertion

These symptoms are nonspecific and may not always point to the causes of hypertension in young adults, which is why regular monitoring is essential.

How can high blood pressure be diagnosed in young adults?

Medical professionals recommend routine screening to identify what causes high blood pressure in young adults. The diagnosis typically includes:

1. Measuring blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer.
2. Urine and blood tests evaluate kidney function and rule out secondary hypertension.
3. An electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart function.
4. Assessing lipid profile and glucose levels to identify potential health risks.

An early diagnosis can reduce the complications related to hypertension to a large extent.

How can hypertension at a young age be prevented?

Preventive actions not only help mitigate the causes of high blood pressure in young adults but also improve overall heart health.

The following lifestyle improvements can have a substantial influence on reducing the risk of high blood pressure:

1. Getting a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every day.
2. Consuming a low-sodium diet including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
3. Maintaining a healthy BMI (18.5-24.9).
4. Stress-reduction techniques include yoga, meditation, and deep breathing.
5. Limiting alcohol and tobacco consumption.
6. Regularly tracking health metrics to detect changes early.

If young adults are experiencing symptoms of high blood pressure, booking a high blood pressure test is a smart step. Download the Dr. Lal Path Labs app to schedule lab visits, view reports, and manage health easily.

FAQs

1. Is it possible to reverse young adults’ hypertension?
   Bringing blood pressure back to normal in the early stages is possible with the help of lifestyle modifications.
2. Is high blood pressure in childhood usually indicative of a serious illness?
   Not always. However, to rule out underlying illnesses, repeatedly high results require medical treatment.
3. Do smartwatches measure blood pressure accurately?
   Although they can provide an estimate, they should not replace diagnostic tools of the highest calibre.
4. How frequently should young adults take their blood pressure?
   If healthy, once a year; if risk factors are present, more frequently.