Hypertension

"Chronic high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a significant health hazard affecting one out of three adults in the United States. This chronic condition is a major cause of heart attacks and strokes, yet it has no symptoms until blood pressure reaches very high levels, which is why it is known as “the silent killer.” The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to get an accurate reading of your resting blood pressure rate, which is best done by a medical professional and should be monitored regularly. High blood pressure is such an important factor in cardiovascular disease, that keeping it within a healthy range is vitally important. Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers. The top number measures systolic pressure (when the heart contracts) and the bottom number measures diastolic pressure (when the heart is at rest). The key blood pressure numbers to keep in mind are: Ideal. 120 over 80 or below; Prehypertension. Higher than 120 over 80 and lower than 139 over 89; Hypertension. Greater than 139 over 89. The risk factors for hypertension include unmodifiable factors such as age, race, and family history. After fifty-five, the risk of developing high blood pressure is 90 percent. African-Americans are more likely to develop hypertension, manifest it at a younger age, and have higher blood pressure readings. There is a strong genetic component to high blood pressure, and an individual’s risk goes up along with the number of family members who have hypertension. Modifiable risk factors include weight, sodium consumption, alcohol, and diet. Roughly 60 percent of people with hypertension are obese. The more salt in a person’s diet, the more likely they are to have high blood pressure. Drinking more than two drinks per day for men and one drink for women increases the likelihood of hypertension. In addition to salt and alcohol consumption, other dietary factors increase chances of developing hypertension. Although it is not possible to change one’s age or genetics, there are actions that people can take to decrease their risk of hypertension. Techniques to reduce blood pressure include becoming physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing sodium intake below 2,400 milligrams per day (or below 1,500 milligrams if you are in a high-risk group or already have been diagnosed with hypertension), using alcohol moderately, and following the DASH diet. Additionally, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium have all been shown to promote healthy blood pressure. It is also vital to monitor your blood pressure levels on a regular basis. Prompt intervention when readings rise above the ideal level (120 over 80) can save lives, which is why everyone should know the status of their blood pressure."