In today’s fast-paced world, the number of lifestyle diseases is on the rise. Contraction of high blood pressure, one such lifestyle disease, is witnessing an increasing trend in India. Such a medical condition may have an impact on your quality of life. Besides, it may also affect your chances of obtaining a health insurance policy.
Effect of high blood pressure on your health
Consistent high blood pressure, sometimes referred to as hypertension, has numerous effects on the human body, if left uncontrolled. Following are a few complications that may arise due to hypertension.
1. Damage to the heart
A rise in blood pressure may result in coronary heart disease as well as heart failure. Besides, it may also force your heart to work harder so as to pump blood to the rest of the body, thus causing the left ventricle to stiffen. This, in turn, increases the chances of heart attack or cardiac death.
2. Damage to the brain
Not keeping your high blood pressure under control may result in weakened blood vessels of the brain. It may also cause blood clots in the arteries, thereby resulting in a stroke. Besides, hypertension may also result in dementia or mild cognitive impairment.
3. Damage to the kidneys
Hypertension may cause damage to the arteries that are present around the kidneys. It may lead toan interference with filtering blood effectively, which may result in kidney failure. Uncontrolled hypertension may also cause glomerulosclerosis or renal artery aneurysm.
Besides the aforementioned effects on health, a spike in blood pressure may cause vision loss, angina (chest pain), peripheral artery disease, and nerve damage, among others.
Effect of high blood pressure on insurance
In order to shield yourself from any hospitalization expenses that may arise due to hypertension, you may invest in health insurance for high blood pressure. However, those opting for a high blood pressure health insurance policy need to keep a few aspects in mind.
• High premium
Health insurance companies consider existing diseases as a parameter for selecting premium rates. Having high blood pressure may, therefore, result in an increase in the rate of premium. These high premiums are charged so as to offset the various risks caused by hypertension. Hence, those suffering from this medical condition may have higher expenses associated with medications and regular consultations from their doctor.
• No coverage
While some health insurance companies may decide to increase the premium rates, some may exclude coverage for your blood pressure condition. Besides, any ailments that develop in the future as a result of your high blood pressure may be excluded as well.
Ultimately, it is the decision of the insurance provider to charge a higher premium or to exclude your ailment. Also, some insurance providers may offer health insurance for high blood pressure patients with a certain waiting period, wherein patients may avail of benefits upon completion of the specific waiting period.
Taking adequate measures
You may take necessary steps in order to reduce the risks associated with high blood pressure. Taking the required measures will also help you avail of lower rates on high blood pressure health insurance premiums.
You may take your medication on a regular basis so as to control your high blood pressure. Besides, you may adhere to a healthy diet that reduces your intake of fat and sodium. You may also keep a control over your weight. Most importantly, you may try to maintain a stress-free life. Given that stress is one of the major reasons that cause high blood pressure, you may resort to meditation and other forms of relaxation.
Chances are that your insurer may offer limited coverage of health insurance for high blood pressure levels. Therefore, following a healthy diet and lifestyle will not only keep various health-related issues under check, but also result in lower insurance rates.
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