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Hypertension

Reviewed by  Maria Maureen Ablen, MD
Written by  Maria Maureen Ablen, MD
Published 05/01/2025

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a significant health concern in the Philippines, affecting a large portion of the adult population. Often termed the "silent killer," it frequently presents no symptoms until severe complications arise. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and management is crucial for prevention and control, particularly as cardiovascular diseases continue to be a leading cause of death among Filipinos (WHO).

1. What Is Hypertension? 2. Prevalence in the Philippines 3. Symptoms of Hypertension 4. Causes and Risk Factors 5. Diagnosis 6. Treatment and Management 7. Prevention 8. Building a Healthier Future

What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this increased pressure can weaken blood vessels, leading to life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure (CDC).

Blood pressure readings are expressed with two numbers:

  • Systolic Pressure: Measures pressure when the heart beats.

  • Diastolic Pressure: Measures pressure when the heart rests between beats.

A normal reading is around 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is typically diagnosed when readings are consistently 130/80 mm Hg or higher.

Persistent hypertension forces the heart to work harder to pump blood, contributing to heart muscle thickening (left ventricular hypertrophy) and eventually heart failure.

Prevalence in the Philippines

The prevalence of hypertension in the Philippines has been steadily rising. The PRESYON 4 study reported that hypertension affected 37% of Filipino adults by 2021, up from 22% in the 1990s.

Alarmingly, about 72% of elderly Filipinos aged 60 and above are hypertensive. Younger populations are also increasingly at risk due to unhealthy eating habits, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and high stress levels associated with urban living.

Regional disparities exist, with urban areas like Metro Manila reporting higher rates of hypertension compared to rural provinces, reflecting the influence of processed food diets and modern lifestyles.

Symptoms of Hypertension

Hypertension is often called a "silent" disease because it can quietly damage the body for years before symptoms become obvious. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

  • Severe headaches

  • Nosebleeds

  • Fatigue or confusion

  • Vision problems

  • Chest pain

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Blood in urine

Hypertensive crises (extremely high blood pressure) can trigger sudden, severe symptoms and require emergency medical attention (Mayo Clinic).

Causes and Risk Factors

Primary (Essential) Hypertension

Develops gradually over time without an identifiable cause. Influencing factors include:

  • Diet high in salt, fat, and cholesterol

  • Lack of physical activity

  • Excessive alcohol consumption

  • Obesity

  • Tobacco use

  • Chronic stress

  • Aging

  • Family history of hypertension

Secondary Hypertension

Results from specific underlying conditions, including:

  • Kidney disease

  • Adrenal gland tumors

  • Thyroid disorders

  • Congenital defects in blood vessels

  • Certain medications such as birth control pills, decongestants, and some pain relievers

Recognizing whether hypertension is primary or secondary is important for determining the most effective treatment approach.

Diagnosis

Hypertension is diagnosed using a sphygmomanometer (blood pressure monitor). Categories of blood pressure levels include:

  • Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg

  • Elevated: 120-129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic

  • Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic

  • Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mm Hg or higher

  • Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg, requiring immediate intervention

Doctors may also recommend ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, blood tests, urine tests, cholesterol profiling, and electrocardiograms to assess overall cardiovascular risk (Heart Foundation).

In the Philippines, barangay health centers often provide free blood pressure monitoring, emphasizing the importance of routine checks, especially for high-risk individuals.

Treatment and Management

Effective management of hypertension combines lifestyle modifications and, when necessary, medication.

Lifestyle Changes

  • Heart-Healthy Diet: Emphasize the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while reducing sodium, red meats, and added sugars.

  • Physical Activity: At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly.

  • Weight Control: Achieving a healthy weight can significantly lower blood pressure.

  • Alcohol Moderation: Limit to no more than one drink per day for women and two for men.

  • Smoking Cessation: Tobacco use damages blood vessels and accelerates hypertension complications.

  • Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation, and yoga help control blood pressure.

  • Sleep Hygiene: Poor sleep, especially conditions like sleep apnea, can worsen hypertension. Prioritize 7–9 hours of quality sleep nightly.

Medications

When lifestyle adjustments alone are insufficient, doctors may prescribe one or more types of medication:

  • Diuretics: Help eliminate excess sodium and fluid.

  • ACE Inhibitors: Relax blood vessels.

  • Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs): Prevent blood vessel constriction.

  • Calcium Channel Blockers: Relax blood vessel muscles.

  • Beta Blockers: Reduce heart workload.

Treatment adherence is critical. Abruptly stopping medications can result in dangerously high blood pressure rebounds. Doctors often personalize treatment plans depending on coexisting conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or chronic kidney disease.

For more insights into treatment options, check out andyou.ph's services.

Prevention

Preventing hypertension is more effective—and far easier—than managing its complications. Strategies include:

  • Limiting salt intake: Target less than 2,300 mg of sodium daily.

  • Increasing potassium-rich foods: Bananas, sweet potatoes, spinach, and beans.

  • Avoiding processed foods: Major hidden sources of sodium and unhealthy fats.

  • Practicing regular exercise: Incorporate both aerobic and resistance exercises.

  • Staying hydrated: Choose water over sugary drinks.

  • Engaging in routine health screenings: Early detection allows for early intervention.

Community fitness programs and corporate wellness initiatives across Metro Manila and major cities are playing important roles in encouraging preventive habits (Philippine Heart Association).

Building a Healthier Future

Reversing the rising tide of hypertension in the Philippines requires both individual action and systemic change. Small daily choices—like opting for healthier meals, walking more, and staying connected with healthcare providers—build resilience against high blood pressure.

Public health efforts such as barangay clinics offering free check-ups, media campaigns encouraging heart-healthy diets, and partnerships with schools to teach healthy habits can shift the nation toward a healthier future.

For personalized support on managing hypertension or building a wellness plan suited to your needs, platforms like andyou.ph make medical consultations more accessible to every Filipino household. Prioritize your heart health today. Small steps, sustained over time, can lead to a lifetime of better health and vitality.