The novel coronavirus is unlike any other illness that not only affects the respiratory system but also causes grievous damage to other parts of the body. We all know people with comorbidities are more at risk of catching the infection and getting severely infected. However, what we also know is that mentally and physically, the pandemic has taken a heavy toll on us, altering our lifestyles to a great degree. This in turn has led to a rise in many chronic illnesses including high blood pressure.
High BP or hypertension is a condition wherein the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, which decreases the flow of the blood and oxygen to the heart, leading to a heart disease. Normally, hypertension is defined as blood pressure above 140/90, and is considered severe if the pressure goes beyond 180/120. Given that high BP has no symptoms, it is also known as a 'silent killer'.
