High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common medical condition characterized by the force of blood against the walls of the arteries being consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded with two numbers: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure represents the force when the heart beats, while the diastolic pressure represents the force when the heart is at rest between beats.
Here are some key points about high blood pressure:
Normal Blood Pressure Range:
Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
Elevated: 120-129/<80 mmHg
Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
Hypertension Stage 2: 140 or higher/90 or higher mmHg
Causes:
- Primary Hypertension: The exact cause is unknown but is often linked to factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle choices.
- Secondary Hypertension: Caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or certain medications.
Risk Factors:
- Age: Risk increases with age.
- Family history: If your parents or close relatives had/have hypertension.
- Race: African Americans are at higher risk.
- Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk.
- Lack of physical activity, excessive salt intake, and excessive alcohol consumption are also risk factors.
Complications:
- Chronic high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and eye issues.
Symptoms:
- Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it may not cause noticeable symptoms until it has reached a severe or life-threatening stage.
- Headaches, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, and dizziness can occur, but these are not specific to high blood pressure and can be caused by other factors.
Diagnosis:
- Blood pressure is measured using a sphygmomanometer, and diagnosis is based on multiple readings taken on different occasions.
Treatment:
- Lifestyle changes: These include maintaining a healthy diet (low in salt, rich in fruits and vegetables), regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and quitting smoking.
- Medications: If lifestyle changes are not sufficient, various classes of medications can help lower blood pressure.
Prevention:
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle from a young age can significantly reduce the risk of developing hypertension.
- Regular check-ups are important for monitoring blood pressure and identifying any potential issues early on.
Monitoring:
- Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial, especially for individuals with hypertension or those at risk.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment based on individual health conditions. High blood pressure management often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.
