Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

What You Should Know About High Blood Pressure:

High blood pressure usually has no symptoms and many people don't know they have it.
If untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, kidney damage, vision problems, or stroke.
There are many things you can do to help keep your blood pressure in check, such as controlling your weight, staying physically active, and watching your sodium and alcohol intake.
It's important to take blood pressure medication exactly as prescribed, or discuss any concerns with your doctor.

What do Those Numbers Mean?

Blood pressure is the pressure inside your arteries as your heart pumps blood through them. This pressure causes the blood to flow to all parts of the body.

Blood pressure is measured in two numbers, such as 120/80 (120 over 80). Normal blood pressure varies from person to person. One person's normal reading may be 100/60 and another person's 130/84.

The first number, the systolic pressure, is the highest pressure in the arteries when the heart pumps blood into them. The second number, the diastolic pressure, is the lowest pressure in the arteries when the heart rests to refill between beats (and is not pumping).

Your blood pressure varies from day to day, even moment to moment, according to your body's needs.

When is Blood Pressure too High?

If your blood pressure is consistently 140/90 or higher, that can cause wear and tear on your arteries, thus weakening them, and increase your risk for heart disease and other serious health problems.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

Most cases have no known cause. But there are factors, according to the American Heart Association, that can increase a person's risk of developing high blood pressure:

Heredity
Increasing age
Sex: Men have a greater risk of high blood pressure than women, until age 55 when the risk becomes equal. After age 65, women have the higher risk.
Race: African Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cuban Americans, and Mexican Americans are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure than Anglo-Americans.
Obesity: Increases risk, especially in people who are 30% or more above ideal body weight.
Heavy sodium (salt) intake: Increases blood pressure in some people.
Heavy alcohol intake: Can increase blood pressure dramatically.
Oral contraceptives: Can increase risk especially in women who smoke, are overweight, or have a family history of high blood pressure.
Sedentary lifestyle: A lack of regular exercise can contribute to obesity, which is a risk factor for high blood pressure.

Can High Blood Pressure be Cured?

In most cases, no. But the good news is that, with regular blood pressure checks, it can be easily detected and treated. And when high blood pressure is treated early and kept under control, its health risks can be prevented or reduced.

How is it Treated?

To help control your blood pressure, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following:

Weight control: If you are overweight, your doctor may prescribe a new meal plan as the first step in controlling your blood pressure. Losing excess pounds can also help you control cholesterol and diabetes.
Sodium restriction: Most Americans consume far more salt than they need. To help control your blood pressure, you may be advised to avoid salty foods and cut down on the amount of salt you use in cooking and at the table.
Alcohol restriction: Follow your doctor's instructions carefully regarding the use of alcohol.
Activity: Besides increasing your risk for high blood pressure, lack of regular exercise is a major risk factor for heart disease. Even a moderate amount of activity can help you control blood pressure, weight, cholesterol, diabetes, and stress. Your doctor can help you get started or refer you to another health professional.
Medication: There are many medications available today to help control blood pressure. The most important thing to remember about blood pressure medication is to take it regularly. Don't decide on your own to reduce or stop the medication, even if you feel great. If you have side effects from it, or concerns about taking it, talk with your doctor. You may be able to take a different medication.
Stop smoking: Cigarette smoking can increase blood pressure and is a major risk factor for heart disease.
Manage your stress: High levels of stress can contribute to the development of high blood pressure. If your blood pressure is already high, too much stress can make it worse.

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