Primary Hypertension Treatment in India

Rohan Reddy, a 45-year-old software engineer...

Rohan Reddy, a 45-year-old software engineer and father of two, had always been the 'healthy one' in his family. His demanding job meant long hours at his desk, frequent takeout meals, and little time for exercise. During a routine company health check, his blood pressure was recorded at 158/96 mmHg. He felt fine, dismissing it as 'white coat syndrome.' However, follow-up home monitoring over two weeks confirmed consistently high readings, sometimes accompanied by mild, persistent headaches and a feeling of pressure behind his eyes. His internal medicine physician, Dr. Kapoor, explained that Rohan had Primary (Essential) Hypertension. There was no single cause, but his sedentary lifestyle, stress, and diet were major contributors. Dr. Kapoor recommended a two-pronged approach: starting a low-dose ACE inhibitor medication and committing to significant lifestyle changes, a low-sodium DASH diet, 30 minutes of daily walking, and stress management techniques. The first few weeks on medication were an adjustment; Rohan felt slightly lightheaded initially. The lifestyle changes were the real challenge, requiring family support to cook healthier meals and schedule evening walks. After three months, his blood pressure stabilized at a healthy 128/82 mmHg. Emotionally, Rohan went from denial and annoyance ('Why me? I feel fine!') to proactive acceptance. The diagnosis was a wake-up call. He now feels empowered, more energetic for his kids, and grateful that a manageable condition was caught early, preventing future damage to his heart and kidneys.