Anantnag, Jul 05: Chronic hypertension can lead to kidney damage and affect the digestive system, doctors said on Friday. They said it poses complications for both maternal and fetal health and stressed the need for early management of hypertension.
This information was revealed during a session organised by the Department of General Medicine at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
Prof (Dr) Mushtaq Ahmad Lone, the Chief Organiser and Head of the Department of General Medicine, delivered the welcome speech, greeting all delegates and emphasising the importance of continuous education in managing hypertension.
Prof (Dr) Rukhsana Najeeb, Principal of GMC Anantnag, said that hypertension, one of the most common non-communicable diseases (NCD), affects over 1.3 billion people worldwide. “It is important to manage hypertension through preventive measures and treatment, particularly in surgical patients, to avoid last-minute cancellations,” she said.
Drawing from her extensive experience in Anaesthesiology and Critical Care as Professor and Head of the Department of Anaesthesiology, GMC Srinagar, Dr Rukhsana discussed the challenges anesthesiologists face with hypertensive patients during surgery and in critical care units.
Dr Shamim Iqbal, Senior Cardiologist, in his presentation “What We Know About Hypertension”, underscored the necessity of understanding the basics for optimal treatment. He said foundational knowledge is a cornerstone for effective management.
Dr Syed Nawaz, HOD Gynecology and Obstetrics, in his talk “Hypertension in Mother and Fetus,” highlighted the critical impact of hypertension during pregnancy. He elaborated on the complications it poses for both maternal and fetal health and the importance of vigilant monitoring and management during prenatal care.
Dr Shawkat Hussain, Senior Cardiologist, in his presentation “Hypertension – Yesterday and Today”, traced the historical perspective of hypertension management. He highlighted the latest trends and advancements in treatment, illustrating how contemporary practices have evolved to enhance patient outcomes.
Dr Irfan Gul, Assistant Professor, in his presentation “Hypertension and the Kidney”, delved into the relationship between hypertension and renal health. He discussed how chronic high blood pressure can lead to kidney damage and the significance of controlling hypertension to prevent renal complications.
Dr Sheikh Nawaz, Assistant Professor, in his talk “Hypertension and the Brain”, explored how hypertension affects cerebrovascular health. He highlighted the risks of stroke and other neurological disorders associated with high blood pressure and the need for effective management strategies to protect brain health.
Dr Mashkoor Ahmad Beg, Associate Professor, in his presentation “Hypertension and the Gastrointestinal Tract”, addressed how hypertension impacts digestive health. He explained the gastrointestinal complications arising from prolonged high blood pressure and the importance of holistic management.
Dr Mohd Yousuf Dar, HOD Ophthalmology, in his talk “Hypertension and How I See”, focused on the ocular manifestations of hypertension. He discussed how high blood pressure can affect vision and the critical role of regular eye examinations in detecting and managing hypertensive retinopathy.
The session was attended by delegates from across the Kashmir Division, including faculty members, consultants, medical officers, and paramedics. The event provided a platform for knowledge exchange and professional development, reinforcing the commitment to improving hypertension management.
