HEALTH TIP

What causes high blood pressure?

Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. The heart pumps blood into the arteries (blood vessels), which carry the blood throughout the body. High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is dangerous because it makes the heart work harder to pump blood out to the body and contributes to hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, to stroke, kidney disease, and to the development of heart failure.

What Is "Normal" Blood Pressure?

A blood pressure reading has a top number (systolic) and bottom number (diastolic). The ranges are:

• Normal: Less than 120 over 80 (120/80)
• Prehypertension: 120-139 over 80-89
• Stage 1 high blood pressure: 140-159 over 90-99
• Stage 2 high blood pressure: 160 and above over 100 and above
• High blood pressure in people over age 60: 150 and above over 90 and above

People whose blood pressure is above the normal range should consult their doctor about steps to take to lower it.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

The exact causes of high blood pressure are not known, but several factors and conditions may play a role in its development, including:

• Smoking
• Being overweight or obese
• Lack of physical activity
• Too much salt in the diet
• Too much alcohol consumption (more than 1 to 2 drinks per day)
• Stress
• Older age
• Genetics
• Family history of high blood pressure
• Chronic kidney disease
• Adrenal and thyroid disorders
• Sleep apnea

Who Is More Likely to Develop High Blood Pressure?

• People with family members who have high blood pressure
• Smokers
• African-Americans
• Pregnant women
• Women who take birth control pills
• People over the age of 35
• People who are overweight or obese
• People who are not active
• People who drink alcohol excessively
• People who eat too many fatty foods or foods with too much salt
• People who have sleep apnea

The Symptoms of Hypertensive Crisis

As mentioned above, only when blood pressure readings soar to dangerously high levels (systolic of 180 or higher OR diastolic of 110 or higher) may obvious symptoms occur. Blood pressure this high is known as hypertensive crisis, and emergency medical treatment is needed.
In addition to extreme readings, a person in hypertensive crisis may experience:

• Severe headaches
• Severe anxiety
• Shortness of breath
• Nosebleeds

 High Blood Pressure Prevention

Maintaining a healthy weight.

 Getting regular exercise

 Reducing salt intake

Avoid consuming alcohol

Avoid smoking

 Reduce stress:

Always talk to your doctor before taking a dietary supplement or alternative herbal treatment. Some may interact with other medications you may be taking or have harmful side effects.