Exercise as a treatment for hypertension: Literature review

<ns3:p>Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can result in severe complications such as heart attacks and strokes. Hypertension doubles the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, renal failure, and peripheral arterial disease. Although the exact cause of primary hypertension remains unclear, many risk factors are strongly and independently associated with its development. In contrast, risk factors for secondary hypertension can overlap with those for primary hypertension, presenting significant challenges in maintaining proper blood pressure control. Most individuals with hypertension do not exhibit any symptoms. However, extremely high blood pressure can cause headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, and other symptoms. Multiple studies have shown that physical activity lowers blood pressure regardless of weight loss, benefiting both individuals with normal blood pressure and those with hypertension. The exact molecular mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects of physical activity on blood pressure remain largely unknown, likely due to the complex and multifaceted nature of blood pressure regulation, involving neuro-hormonal, hemodynamic, and metabolic factors. Clinicians should incorporate practical strategies into exercise prescriptions, such as working out with friends, joining community groups, and tracking physical activity duration or counts.</ns3:p>