High Blood Pressure
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which your blood pressure readings are higher than average. When you have narrowed arteries, it can be difficult to oxygenate your blood and restrict its flow. If you don't treat high blood pressure, it can lead to various heart diseases, kidney diseases, and brain damage.
A variation from 120/80 mm Hg, the average blood pressure readings, must be monitored. If it goes beyond 140 above/90 and above mm Hg, your physician may recommend various diagnostic tests like ECG, blood test, cholesterol reading, and kidney ultrasound.
Maintaining your diet, avoiding alcohol, and exercising are the primary ways to treat mild high blood pressure. Medications are prescribed to treat secondary hypertension or when lifestyle changes seem ineffective.
What are the risk factors and symptoms of High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure is provoked when the pressure in an artery exceeds a certain level. When the blood flow pressures the arteries, their walls slowly weaken. Primary hypertension is caused over time by risk factors like:
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Obesity
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Heavy alcohol consumption
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Diabetes
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High sodium intake
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Lack of physical activity
Risk factors that trigger secondary hypertension (high blood pressure caused by other medical conditions) include:
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Obstructive sleep apnea
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Congenital heart defects
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Kidney disease
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Thyroid problems
While high blood pressure can lead to symptoms, many people with hypertension do not show any signs or symptoms of the disease. Over time, high blood pressure will cause dizziness and flushing, shortness of breath, and blood spots in the eyes. Blood pressure readings can help you determine if you have high blood pressure.
