High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is too high. This can put strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed as two numbers: the systolic pressure (top number), which represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, and the diastolic pressure (bottom number), which represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg. However, a reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher is considered high blood pressure, while a reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is classified as stage 2 hypertension.
Risk factors for developing high blood pressure include age, family history, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, stress, and a diet high in salt and low in potassium. Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and kidney disease can also increase the risk of hypertension.
Treatment for high blood pressure typically involves lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes can include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet low in salt and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing stress.
Medications for high blood pressure include diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers. These medications work by reducing the force of the heart's contractions, relaxing the blood vessels, or reducing the amount of fluid in the body.
It's important to manage high blood pressure, as untreated hypertension can lead to serious health problems. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and working with a healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan can help prevent complications and improve overall health.
High Blood Pressure Resources