High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure, which is the pressure when the heart beats, and diastolic pressure, which is the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats. High blood pressure is diagnosed when the systolic pressure is 130 mmHg or higher, or the diastolic pressure is 80 mmHg or higher.
High blood pressure is a common condition that can develop over time and may not have noticeable symptoms. However, if left untreated, it can increase the risk of severe health problems, such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss.
Risk factors for developing high blood pressure include age, family history, being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, smoking, a diet high in sodium and low in potassium, and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and sleep apnea.
Treatment for the high blood pressure may include lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, following a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol consumption, as well as medications prescribed by a doctor to help lower blood pressure. Normal blood pressure monitoring is vital to stay within a healthy range and identify potential problems early.