High Blood Pressure Knowledge That Could Save Your Life

By Author: Darrin Reservitz
Total Articles: 47
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Hypertension, or, as it's more often called, high blood pressure, doesn't discriminate. Millions of Americans are victim to it. But, and this is problematic, many aren't that educated on this issue. What causes high blood pressure? What are hypertension symptoms? How is it diagnosed? Why should high blood pressure worry me? The purpose of this article is to answer these questions so you can start on the road of the healthy heart.

What Does It Mean to Have Hypertension?

Blood pressure is what it sounds like: the pressure given off by blood as it propels through the body. Blood pressure numbers look like those fractions you studied in elementary school. For example, take 120/80. The first number, 120, is systolic. Systolic is the pressure that occurs as the heart pumps the blood. In the denominator, 80, is the diastolic number. Diastolic is the opposite of systolic. It chronicles the pressure exerted between beats. High blood pressure occurs when these numbers are elevated and there's excess pressure. 140/90 and up is considered high blood pressure.

Is There a Simple Way to Determine ...
... if My Blood Pressure is High?

One of the difficulties with diagnosing high blood pressure is that it there are few, if any, hypertension symptoms. Thus, almost a 1/3 of people living with high blood pressure aren't aware of having it! So, at least bi-annually, get your blood pressure measured. The good news? It's quick and without pain The doctor places an inflatable band over your arm. He or she pumps it up and reads the pressure from a blood pressure meter. It's entirely possible that you've seen blood pressure equipment at your local pharmacist.

Why Should High Blood Pressure Worry Me?

High blood pressure can damage blood vessels. Think about water going through a fire hose. If the water pressure is too great, it can harm the hose. The consequences of this occurrence can prove devastating. They include strokes, heart attacks, and harm to the kidneys. High blood pressure can actually result in the end of life! That's why you need to be not only aware of high blood pressure, but also the causes of it so you can keep your pressure in check.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

Stress is one of several high blood pressure causes. And, given our hectic work, social and family lives, stress, unfortunately, is a friend to many! In addition, sodium can also be a contributory factor. So can drinking and smoking. Also, fat can aid high blood pressure. Unfortunately, many of these high blood pressure causes come together. In other words, the same people who are overweight often also, for example, consume foods high in sodium.

As you can see, high blood pressure causes are legion. In addition, as a result of the harm hypertension can affect in your body, it should be top of mind. This is the reason you need to stay on top of your blood pressure and further your learning so you can control it.