High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is expressed with two numbers: systolic pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats).
Hypertension is typically defined as having a reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher, according to guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association.
Causes of High Blood Pressure:
- Primary Hypertension: This type develops gradually over many years and has no identifiable cause, often related to genetic factors and lifestyle.
- Secondary Hypertension: This type can develop suddenly and is often due to an underlying condition, such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or the use of certain medications.
Risk Factors:
- Age
- Family history
- Lack of physical activity
- Poor diet, especially one high in salt, fat, and cholesterol
- Overweight and obesity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Chronic stress
Health Risks: If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health issues, including:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Heart failure
- Kidney damage
- Vision loss
- Peripheral artery disease
Management and Treatment: High blood pressure can often be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes and medication, including:
- Eating a healthy diet (e.g., DASH diet)
- Regular physical activity
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Reducing salt intake
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Quitting smoking
- Managing stress
Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider are important for managing blood pressure effectively.