A recent survey conducted by PGIMER’s dietetics department sheds light on common myths and health risks related to hypertension among senior citizens.
The survey, which took place from March 10-15 at the New OPD and Advanced Cardiac Centre, surveyed 60 hypertensive patients. This study was part of World Kidney Day celebrations and primarily focused on elderly patients. The majority of participants were senior citizens—60% male and 40% female—offering a comprehensive look at how hypertension is understood and managed in this demographic.
Misunderstandings About Hypertension
One of the most striking findings of the survey was that nearly 41% of the patients believed that high blood pressure is curable. This, according to doctors, is a misconception. High blood pressure is a manageable condition, not a curable one. Medical professionals stress that while lifestyle changes and medication can control hypertension, it remains a chronic issue that requires consistent management.
The survey’s results highlight a lack of awareness about the nature of hypertension. Many seniors in Chandigarh seem to be under the false impression that they can stop taking their medication once their blood pressure levels appear normal. Around 31% of the patients admitted to stopping their medication for this very reason, underscoring the need for better education on the condition.
This misunderstanding might explain why 48.6% of the patients surveyed were irregular with their medication. A significant number of these individuals cited a disbelief in the necessity of continuous treatment. Additionally, 14.3% of respondents reported forgetting to take their medication, which also contributes to irregular management of the condition.
Alternative Treatments and Over-the-Counter Medications
Another interesting aspect of the survey was the number of patients resorting to self-medication or alternative treatments. Around 21% of the participants mentioned they had tried alternative treatments to control their blood pressure. These alternative methods range from herbal remedies to practices like yoga and acupuncture. While some might offer mild benefits, there’s a risk that these methods could interfere with prescribed medical treatments, further complicating blood pressure management.
Moreover, 17.4% of the participants were found to be using over-the-counter NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to manage hypertension symptoms. This is particularly concerning because NSAIDs can exacerbate hypertension and even lead to kidney damage when used over extended periods. The use of such medications without professional supervision raises red flags regarding self-diagnosis and the potential for adverse effects on health.
The Role of Kidney Health
The survey also delved into the early warning signs of kidney failure, a common complication of untreated hypertension. The results indicated that 9.1% of the participants showed early symptoms of kidney failure, including swelling in the feet and frequent urination at night. These early signs are crucial for diagnosing kidney damage, and ignoring them can worsen the overall health situation.
High blood pressure has long been linked to kidney disease, particularly if it remains uncontrolled. Kidney failure can be a silent, gradual process, and it often goes unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. This makes early intervention and consistent monitoring essential for preventing irreversible kidney damage.
Lifestyle Factors Contributing to Hypertension
The survey also explored the lifestyle habits of the participants, revealing a strong connection between these behaviors and hypertension. Of the surveyed individuals, 37% had diabetes, a condition that is often seen in conjunction with high blood pressure. Furthermore, 9% of the patients were smokers, and 13.04% reported consuming alcohol more than three times a week. Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are known to exacerbate hypertension and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
The link between lifestyle choices and hypertension is well-documented. Smoking causes blood vessels to narrow, which raises blood pressure. Similarly, excessive alcohol intake can disrupt the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure effectively. Addressing these behaviors could play a crucial role in managing hypertension in the senior population.
The Need for Awareness and Education
What the survey highlights is a pressing need for greater awareness and education about hypertension, particularly among senior citizens. Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no obvious symptoms, making it difficult for individuals to recognize its severity. The PGIMER survey underscores the importance of ongoing education to help patients understand the condition, its risks, and the necessity of sticking to prescribed treatments.
This education should also address the lifestyle factors contributing to hypertension. By focusing on healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and the reduction of harmful behaviors such as smoking and excessive drinking, public health campaigns could significantly reduce the burden of hypertension-related diseases.
Key Takeaways from the Survey
Here’s a breakdown of the survey’s findings:
- 40.9% of patients believed hypertension is curable.
- 48.6% were irregular with hypertension medication, citing disbelief in the need for continuous treatment or forgetfulness.
- 21% tried alternative treatments for managing blood pressure.
- 9.1% exhibited early signs of kidney failure.
- 37% had diabetes, a condition closely linked with hypertension.
- 9% were smokers, and 13.04% consumed alcohol more than three times a week.
A Wake-up Call
The findings from this survey serve as a wake-up call for both healthcare providers and the public. While hypertension is a manageable condition, the key to controlling it lies in awareness, adherence to prescribed treatments, and lifestyle changes. For seniors, these factors are even more critical, as they face increased risks for heart disease, kidney failure, and other serious complications when hypertension is left unchecked.
It’s time for a more informed and proactive approach to managing hypertension, especially as more and more seniors fall prey to common misconceptions. Public health education is an essential step toward improving the health and quality of life for our aging population.
