Battling hypertension: Personal story of healing and transformation

By making lifestyle changes, I am determined to keep hypertension under control. [iStockphoto]

As I suffered from severe headache and fatigue, I opted to seek relief in painkillers.

Unfortunately, they proved ineffective. As each day passed, my condition got worse, making it impossible for me to carry out household and farming chores.

Living in Kiamwinja village in Embu County, I decided to obtain medical assistance at Kairuri Hospital. After a series of examinations, I received a diagnosis of hypertension.

I attribute the onset of the disease to the overwhelming stress and anxiety that I endured following the death of my elder sister. Unfortunately, she had a blood clot in her brain. Despite a successful surgical procedure, she regrettably succumbed to the condition after five days of the operation.

Losing my sister was devastating for me as she was my best friend besides being my sister. The grief I felt as a result triggered intense headaches that could not be remedied through painkillers. I, therefore, opted to seek medical assistance.

Although the loss of my sister acted as a catalyst for my condition, I had been inaudibly suffering for some time. My medical records show I was diagnosed with stage three hypertension which was advancing towards severe hypertension which is deemed as an emergency situation.

The healthcare providers at the hospital said I needed to make significant lifestyle changes by following a healthy diet plan, exercising regularly and adhering to the prescribed medication.

I have made changes to my daily routine by reducing my consumption of salt and sugar and placing great emphasis on physical fitness.

I have also started participating in dairy farming and coffee cultivation activities as part of my daily routine. By making lifestyle changes, I am determined to keep hypertension under control so I can lead a fulfilling life.

- As narrated to Roma Odhiambi, a Standard Group reporter. Are you a patient, family member, or medic with a health story to share? Write to us on [email protected]