WHY DIASTOLIC IS DISEASE

 WHY DIASTOLIC IS DISEASE

Diastolic pressure is one of the two measurements used to assess blood pressure. When a person’s blood pressure is measured, you often see two numbers, for example, 120/80 mmHg. The first number is systolic pressure, which indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts and pushes blood into the vessels. The second number is diastolic pressure, which indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. However, in some cases, when diastolic pressure is consistently high, it can indicate a disease or be a sign of serious hidden heart or vascular problems.

NORMAL BLOOD PRESSURE

In a healthy body, systolic ranges between 90–120 mmHg, and diastolic ranges between 60–80 mmHg. When these values are within this range, the heart functions efficiently, blood vessels remain open, and blood circulates properly throughout the body. But when diastolic rises above 90 mmHg, it indicates that the blood vessels are constricted or stiff, forcing the heart to work harder than usual to push blood throughout the body.

CAUSES OF HIGH DIASTOLIC PRESSURE

There are several reasons diastolic pressure may rise. The first is constricted or plaque-filled blood vessels. Excess cholesterol accumulates in arteries, narrowing the pathways for blood flow. As blood moves through these narrow passages, pressure increases.

The second cause is chronic stress. When a person experiences constant fatigue or anger, the body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which constrict blood vessels, raising diastolic pressure.

The third is poor diet. Consuming excessive salt, fatty foods, or leading a sedentary lifestyle reduces blood vessel efficiency, causing diastolic pressure to rise.

The fourth is reduced heart function (left ventricular dysfunction), where the heart cannot properly relax between beats, leaving blood in the left side of the heart and increasing pressure during the diastolic phase.

DIASTOLIC HYPERTENSION AS A DISEASE

When diastolic pressure remains above 90 mmHg over time, it is no longer normal. This condition is known as Isolated Diastolic Hypertension (IDH). Unlike systolic hypertension, which is common in older adults, IDH often develops subtly but can have serious consequences. High diastolic pressure continuously stresses the heart and blood vessels, causing structural and functional changes in the heart and brain.

CONSEQUENCES OF CHRONIC DIASTOLIC HYPERTENSION

When diastolic pressure is elevated long-term, the heart works harder to overcome the pressure in the vessels. This can lead to Left Ventricular Hypertrophy, where the heart wall thickens but loses its ability to relax properly and fill efficiently.

Another major risk is stroke. High pressure can damage or rupture blood vessels in the brain, causing severe headaches, loss of consciousness, or sudden neurological deficits.

Kidney disease can also develop because high diastolic pressure damages small renal arteries, reducing the kidneys’ ability to filter blood effectively.

HOW DIASTOLIC PRESSURE DIFFERS FROM SYSTOLIC IN DISEASE

Systolic hypertension usually appears in older adults as vessels lose elasticity, while diastolic hypertension often affects younger or middle-aged adults. Both are diseases, but diastolic hypertension can be harder to detect because a person may feel normal despite elevated readings. The key difference is that diastolic hypertension is closely linked to diastolic relaxation of the heart. Poor relaxation can progress to diastolic heart failure, where the heart cannot fill adequately between beats.

SIGNS OF HIGH DIASTOLIC PRESSURE

Although often silent, some signs may include:

– Severe morning headaches

– Shortness of breath

– Fatigue without strenuous activity

– Palpitations

– Sleep disturbances

– Unexplained tiredness

HOW TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE HIGH DIASTOLIC PRESSURE

Diagnosis requires measurement with a sphygmomanometer. A single reading is insufficient because stress or temporary factors can elevate blood pressure. Multiple readings at different times of day are necessary. If diastolic consistently exceeds 90 mmHg, medical evaluation is essential.

WAYS TO LOWER DIASTOLIC PRESSURE

The first step is diet modification. Reduce salt intake, eat more fruits and vegetables, drink enough water, and avoid fatty foods to prevent plaque buildup.

The second is regular exercise. At least 30 minutes per day of walking, jogging, or swimming improves vascular function and heart efficiency.

The third is stress management. Techniques such as meditation, prayer, or calming music reduce hormone levels that increase blood pressure.

The fourth is avoiding smoking and alcohol, both of which damage blood vessels and elevate diastolic pressure.

The fifth is regular medical checkups to monitor blood pressure and receive guidance on medications or lifestyle interventions.

SCIENTIFIC AND MEDICAL INSIGHTS

Cardiovascular physiology research shows that diastolic hypertension is closely associated with impaired endothelial function, the ability of blood vessels to produce nitric oxide, which helps them relax. Reduced nitric oxide leads to vessel constriction and elevated diastolic pressure. This condition begins at a microscopic level, affecting the smallest arteries before symptoms appear.

CONCLUSION

Diastolic hypertension should not be ignored. While most people focus on systolic readings, diastolic pressure is a critical indicator of underlying heart or vascular issues. Avoiding stress, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and monitoring blood pressure are key to preventing diastolic elevation. Early detection protects the heart, kidneys, and brain.

FINAL THOUGHT

Maintaining good health requires awareness of your body. Diastolic hypertension may be silent, but it can cause severe complications if neglected. Monitoring blood pressure regularly, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking timely medical care are essential. Elevated diastolic pressure is not just a number—it is a warning sign of hidden disease. Recognizing it as a medical condition is the first step toward preventing serious health consequences.