Life Research News : High blood pressure
Blood pressure is the force in the arteries when the heart beats (systolic pressure) and when the heart is at rest (diastolic pressure). It’s measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). High blood pressure (or hypertension) is defined in an adult as a blood pressure greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg systolic pressure or greater than or equal to 90 mm Hg diastolic pressure.
High blood pressure directly increases the risk of coronary heart disease (which leads to heart attack) and stroke, especially when it’s present with other risk factors.
High blood pressure (HBP) is a serious condition that can lead to coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems.
“Blood pressure” is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps out blood. If this pressure rises and stays high over time, it can damage the body in many ways.
There are several different categories of blood pressure and they are the following:
• Normal Rate – not more than 120/80
• Pre-hypertension Rate – 120-139/80-89
• Stage 1 High Blood Pressure -140-159/90-99
• Stage 2 High Blood Pressure – 160 and above/100 and above
People with high blood pressure should immediately consult a doctor for ways to control and it. There are several causes of high blood pressure and they are the following below:
• Obesity
• Smoking and drinking
• No exercise
• Too much salt intake
• Stress
• Genetics (heredity)
• Old age
Hypertension usually does not have any symptoms and as a matter of fact many people do not know that they already have high blood pressure. The best way to know if you have high blood pressure is to go to the doctor to have it checked.
The following are possible symptoms of high blood pressure:
• Severe headaches
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Chest pain and congestion
• Breathing problems
• Heartbeat irregularities
• Blood in the urine
The following below are most likely to have high blood pressure:
• People who have relatives with hypertension
• Pregnant women
• Women who take contraceptives
• Overweight and obese people
• Physically inactive people
• People who smoke and drink
• People with high intake of salt
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels that may eventually lead to other conditions including:
• Stroke
• Heart attack or heart failure
• Kidney failure
• Vision problems
Hypertension can be dignosed by a doctor or a nurse by using a special device called sphygmomanometer which consists of a pump, arm cuff, dial, valve and a stethoscope. You can also check if you have a high blood pressure at home by using a device that can be purchased in stores. Regular monitoring of your blood pressure is a good way to control hypertension and it should be done at least after every 3 months.
High blood pressure can be controlled by reducing weight through exercising and maintaining a proper diet. Fruits and vegetables are the most recommend food to eat. Also, doctor-prescribed medicines help in lowering blood pressure. To know more about hypertension and how to prevent it, it is best to consult a doctor.