High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. This increases the workload of the heart and blood vessels, making them work harder and less efficiently. Over time, this high pressure can damage the blood vessels and lead to heart disease, stroke, and other problems.

High blood pressure is often called a "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms. Many people with high blood pressure feel fine. However, extremely high blood pressure can cause headaches, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, and flushing. Nonetheless, these symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions and may not occur until high blood pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage.

Causes of high blood pressure can include:

• Genetic factors, with a family history of hypertension
• Age, as the risk of high blood pressure increases with age
• Lifestyle factors such as lack of physical activity, a high-salt diet, overweight or obesity
• Chronic conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol
• Smoking and alcohol consumption

High blood pressure is diagnosed through blood pressure readings. A blood pressure reading, given in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), has two numbers. The top number is the systolic pressure, which indicates the pressure when the heart beats. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure, which shows the pressure when the heart rests between beats. A normal reading would be below 120/80 mm Hg.

Management and treatment of high blood pressure involve lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication. Here are some lifestyle adjustments that can help:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet, including potassium and fiber, and limiting the intake of alcohol and caffeine
• Exercising regularly to maintain a healthy weight and improve heart health
• Quitting smoking to improve blood pressure and overall health
• Reducing stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
• Taking prescribed blood pressure medications exactly as directed by a healthcare provider

For any concerns or questions about managing high blood pressure, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.