Causes of High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is too high. This can damage your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health problems.
The exact cause of high blood pressure is unknown, but there are a number of factors that can contribute to it, including:
- Family history: If you have a family history of high blood pressure, you are more likely to develop it yourself.
- Age: High blood pressure becomes more common as you get older.
- Race: African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans are more likely to develop high blood pressure than Caucasians.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels, which can lead to high blood pressure.
- Physical inactivity: Regular physical activity helps to keep your weight under control and can also help to lower your blood pressure.
- Salt intake: Too much salt in your diet can raise your blood pressure.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise your blood pressure.
- Smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels and can also raise your blood pressure.
- Certain chronic diseases: Certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes and kidney disease, can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure.
How does high blood pressure work?
When your heart beats, it pumps blood through your arteries. The force of the blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is called blood pressure. Blood pressure is measured in two numbers: systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Systolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart beats and diastolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart is at rest.
Normal blood pressure is considered to be less than 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure is defined as systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher, or diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher.
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Most people with high blood pressure do not have any symptoms. This is why it is often called a “silent killer.” However, some people may experience symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Vision problems
- Chest pain
- Palpitations
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away.
How is high blood pressure diagnosed?
High blood pressure is diagnosed with a blood pressure test. This is a simple, painless test that can be done at your doctor’s office.
How is high blood pressure treated?
The treatment for high blood pressure depends on the severity of your condition. In most cases, lifestyle changes can help to lower your blood pressure. These changes include:
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Limiting your salt intake
- Not smoking
- Limiting your alcohol intake
If lifestyle changes are not enough to lower your blood pressure, you may need to take medication. There are many different types of blood pressure medications available, and your doctor will help you choose the right one for you.
How can I prevent high blood pressure?
There is no sure way to prevent high blood pressure, but there are things you can do to lower your risk. These include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Limiting your salt intake
- Not smoking
- Limiting your alcohol intake
- Getting regular checkups
By following these tips, you can help to lower your risk of developing high blood pressure and improve your overall health.
Additional resources:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/high-blood-pressure
American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373410
I hope this blog post has been informative. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask your doctor.