Cardiologist warns high blood pressure also weakens cognitive abilities
RSU professor and cardiologist Andris Skride warns that prolonged high blood pressure gradually impairs thinking and cognitive function, calling its treatment a key part of health prevention.
Andris Skride, a professor at Riga Stradiņš University, cardiologist and founder of the Skride Heart Clinic, discussed the effects of high blood pressure on the body during the TV24 program "Ārsts atbild" (The Doctor Answers).
According to Skride, elevated blood pressure negatively affects several organs, including the brain, kidneys and liver. Over time, it can contribute to a decline in cognitive abilities and various brain-related conditions. However, once blood pressure begins to be corrected, the body starts a recovery process, which is why treating high blood pressure should be seen as an important part of preventive healthcare.
Heart health develops over decades
Skride emphasized that cardiovascular health is not something that develops only later in life, at age 50, 60 or 70. Conditions such as heart attacks, arterial calcification or strokes do not appear overnight but are the result of a long process that can begin as early as age 18-20. While genetics play a significant role, many risk factors — including high blood pressure — can be prevented or managed.
Latvia lags behind in healthy life expectancy
The professor noted that Latvia continues to have among the worst statistics in Europe for years lived in good health. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of premature death in the country. At the same time, Skride pointed out that such diseases can be prevented or delayed by 10 to 20 years, which could allow people in Latvia to enjoy healthy lives as long as those in Western Europe — at least 70 years, compared to roughly 50 years currently.
