Why men are particularly at risk
High blood pressure, medically known as arterial hypertension, is one of the most common, yet often unrecognized, risk factors for serious illnesses. Men over 40 are particularly at risk of developing persistently elevated blood pressure, often without realizing it.
Because high blood pressure often causes no symptoms for a long time, it is considered a "silent killer." However, if it is detected and treated early, the risk of heart attack , stroke, kidney failure , and erectile dysfunction can be significantly reduced.
For men, blood pressure control is therefore a central element of modern health care, especially in cases of simultaneous overweight, stress , lack of exercise or hormonal imbalance.
What is high blood pressure?
Blood pressure describes the force with which blood is pushed against the walls of the blood vessels. It consists of two values: systolic (pressure during heartbeat) and diastolic (pressure at rest).
By definition, high blood pressure is present when repeated measurements show values of 140/90 mmHg or higher. Optimal values would be below 130/85 mmHg. However, many men have blood pressure in the "pre-hypertensive range" without realizing it – an inconspicuous but dangerous condition.
What symptoms occur with high blood pressure?
In most cases, high blood pressure remains asymptomatic for a long time. Many men only become aware of it through routine checkups or secondary illnesses. Nevertheless, there are typical signs that can indicate elevated blood pressure:
- Morning headaches
- Pressure in the head
- Dizziness or ringing in the ears
- Nervousness or inner restlessness
- Sleep disorders
- heart palpitations
- Visual disturbances
These symptoms are not specific, but should be understood as warning signs in men aged 35 and over, especially in combination with stress , being overweight, or declining performance.
What are the causes and risk factors in men?
The causes of high blood pressure are varied. In men, several risk factors often occur simultaneously. The following are particularly relevant:
- Excess weight, especially abdominal fat
- Lack of exercise
- Chronic stress and high cortisol levels
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- high-salt diet
- Smoke
- Sleep apnea or poor sleep
- Family history
- Hormonal imbalances, e.g. testosterone deficiency
How is high blood pressure diagnosed in men?
Diagnosis begins with multiple blood pressure measurements at rest. Blood pressure should be measured on several days at different times. Additionally, 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring can provide clarity, especially for men with occupational stress or fluctuating daily activity levels.
Important additional examinations:
- Blood count including kidney values ( creatinine , cystatin C, urea)
- Electrolytes (sodium, potassium)
- Thyroid values ( TSH , fT3 , fT4 )
- Hormone profile ( testosterone , free testosterone , cortisol )
- Resting ECG or stress ECG
- Ultrasound of the kidneys and heart if secondary damage is suspected
The combination of measurements and laboratory results provides information about whether it is a primary hypertension or a secondary condition.
How can high blood pressure be treated?
In early stages, blood pressure can often be regulated without medication. The goal is to reduce risk factors and improve vascular tone.
Non-drug measures:
- Daily exercise, e.g. endurance training (3-5 times/week)
- Weight loss (especially reduction of belly fat )
- Reduction of alcohol, nicotine and salt
- Mindfulness training, meditation, breathing exercises
- Sufficient sleep
- Dietary change (e.g. Mediterranean diet)
Drug therapy:
If blood pressure is consistently above 140/90 mmHg or if other risk factors are present, blood pressure-lowering medication may be necessary. The following medications are used:
- ACE inhibitors
- Beta blockers
- Calcium antagonists
- Diuretics
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (sartans)
The selection is made on an individual basis and is often combined with a step-by-step approach. Regular monitoring is important to avoid under- or overtreatment.
What should men with high blood pressure pay particular attention to?
High blood pressure often affects men during a phase of life where stress , work pressure, and family obligations converge. Many react too late or ignore symptoms, often with fatal consequences.
Typical male patterns such as "persevering," "functioning," or "not showing weakness" lead to a neglect of prevention. Early lifestyle checks and regular measurements are the best tools against later complications.
Sexual health can also suffer from high blood pressure. Erectile dysfunction is often an early sign of vascular changes, frequently years before a heart attack . Early intervention protects not only your sex life but also your heart.
Conclusion: Detect high blood pressure early and avoid it in the long term.
High blood pressure is a silent but serious condition that is often diagnosed too late in men. Regular measurements, a healthy lifestyle, and targeted diagnostics are crucial to preventing secondary diseases.
Those who know and understand their blood pressure can actively counteract it with exercise, nutrition, stress management and, if necessary, medication.
Being mindful of one's own body is not a sign of weakness, but of sovereignty and foresight.
Tip: In our men's health podcast, Prof. Dr. Alexander Leber, renowned cardiologist and internist, discusses cardiovascular diseases. He clearly explains the causes and underlying mechanisms and provides valuable tips for prevention and treatment. Listen now.
