How Much Do You Know About High Blood Pressure?

It is strange, that at the rate high blood pressure or hypertension affects people around the world, we as a whole know very little about it. There are a lot of misconceptions about high blood pressure, and they can lead to dangerous effects, as a lot of people don't know what causes it, much less how to prevent it. If you know a lot about high blood pressure, its effects on the body and how you can keep yourself healthy, consider yourself very lucky, and pass the information on to those you love and care about. If not, continue reading and educate yourself on this very real disease. So in the spirit of bettering yourself and your health, we ask you, do you know?

What blood pressure is?

Blood pressure is a system of two numbers. The top (or first) number is the systolic blood pressure and the bottom (or second) number is the diastolic blood pressure. The systolic blood pressure is a reading of the pressure that the heart exerts when it is pumping the blood into the circulatory system and the rest of the body. The diastolic blood pressure is a reading of the pressure that the heart exerts when it is at rest, or not working.

What the normal range for blood pressure is?

Normal blood pressure may vary for each individual, depending on their height, weight, activity level, etc. However, the American Heart Association has come up with normal ranges, in which every adult should try to remain. The normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. Prehypertension is determined when the range is 120-139/80-89. Stage one hypertension is when the reading is 140-159/90-99. Stage two hypertension is defined as a blood pressure of 160+/100+. Anything above the normal range is cause for concern, but the higher the number and stage, the more dangerous the hypertension is considered.

What causes high blood pressure?

There are a lot of causes of high blood pressure, and people react differently in various situations. What affects one person may not affect another, but all of the causes should be considered. Obesity, high salt intake, stress, extreme alcohol consumption, smoking and lack of physical exercise are all lifestyle changes that people can make to help lower blood pressure, or reduce risk in the first place. Risk factors that people can't control are age, genetics, a family history of high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease. Anyone at risk should take precautions so as not to further their risk or likelihood of developing high blood pressure problems.

Who is at the highest risk for high blood pressure?

African Americans are at high risk because they are genetically predisposed to high blood pressure and cardiovascular problem. Men and women over the age of 35 should begin keeping a closer eye on their blood pressure more regularly. Pregnant women and those who are at risk for developing preeclampsia, and who are taking estrogen-based birth control pills should be especially careful of high salt intake and stress. Those who smoke, eat high cholesterol foods, and drink excessive alcohol are also at a higher risk. There is a great deal of information available on high blood pressure. Everyone should educate themselves on the risk factors and ways to avoid developing high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a very serious disease and should be taken as such. While there is no point in worrying excessively, it is a good idea to monitor your blood pressure regularly. If you don't already have blood pressure problems, follow simple steps to decrease your risk, and you may be able to set yourself up for a happy, healthy lifestyle. www.webmd.com