Hypertension in the Philippines: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Manage It

Learn how to prevent and manage hypertension in the Philippines. Discover symptoms, causes, and daily tips to control high blood pressure and stay heart-healthy.

June 3, 2025
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In 2024, hypertension was one of the leading causes of mortality in the Philippines. With the faster-paced life most modern Filipinos experience today, and the increasing costs of medicine and medical care, it is crucial that you learn proactive ways to prevent hypertension. We’ll explore some methods and habits you can use to manage or even avoid this condition.

Hypertension Fast Facts

Considered a “lifestyle” or non-communicable disease, hypertension, also known as “high blood” locally, happens when pressure in your blood vessels equals or exceeds 140/90 mmHg due to various factors that trigger a jump in your heart rate.

A high heart rate doesn’t automatically mean hypertension. Engaging in strenuous physical activity like exercise or rushing to not miss the MRT, as well as stress at work or school, can raise your blood pressure.

Symptoms of hypertension include headaches, dizziness, chest pain, difficulty breathing, nausea, anxiety, confusion, and a buzzing sound in the ears.

High blood pressure has several factors, including:

Age: The older you get, the more likely you are to experience hypertension
Genetics: A family history of chronic high blood pressure increases your risk
Weight: Being overweight or obese often leads to hypertension
Physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to high blood pressure
Diet: Salty foods and high alcohol consumption make hypertension more likely

Other risk factors involve environmental conditions, like intense heat and air pollution. Existing diseases like diabetes or damage to your kidneys can also contribute to hypertension.

Hypertension Prevention Nutrition

Less Salty Foods. Eating fewer salty foods, coupled with a healthy, balanced diet, can help reduce high blood pressure. More vegetables in your meal plan don’t hurt, either.
Easy On Alcohol. Reducing alcohol consumption is good for hypertension management. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests a daily maximum of 2 bottles for men and 1 for women.
Portion Control. Given the role weight plays in hypertension, it’s good to practice a well-portioned meal plan. Avoid overeating and build a balanced diet to keep your weight down.
More Heart-Healthy Foods. Include more foods that help keep your heart and cardiovascular system healthy, like grains, fruits, and lean protein.
Consult Your Cardiologist. Talk to your cardiologist regarding proper nutrition for your heart. They can suggest meal plans and dietary changes to help with your hypertension management.

Proactive High Blood Pressure Prevention

Avoid or Lessen Smoking. This habit damages blood vessels and contributes to heart disease. Don’t start if you haven’t, and try to quit if you already smoke, or at least reduce your consumption.
Move more. Physical activity helps prevent hypertension. Walk more to where you’re going, or engage in a more active lifestyle of exercise or sports.
Get Enough Sleep. Not getting enough sleep can lead to increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Sleep also improves your overall health and supports better weight management.
Healthy Stress Management. Reducing stress is important in high blood pressure prevention, but so is how you do it. Yoga, meditation, sports, and more sleep are better than binging on salty foods, alcohol, and smoking.
Take Your Medicine. If your doctor prescribed high blood pressure medication, do take it as indicated, as it is a key part of your hypertension management.

Stay Healthy to Manage Hypertension

Hypertension is an avoidable and manageable disease. If you maintain a healthy diet, an active lifestyle, get plenty of rest, and avoid risky habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, you can avoid the dangers of high blood pressure.