Blood Pressure & Hypertension

While there is no ideal blood pressure, there is a range of normal blood pressure. Generally, a reading that is less than 140 over 90 is good. If a reading is outside this range for an extended period of time, one has high blood pressure or hypertension.

Hypertension is dangerous because it causes the heart to do a lot more work, which contributes to heart attacks and stroke. If it occurs over an extended period of time, it tends to enlarge the heart. A significantly enlarged heart cannot function very well. High blood pressure also can produce arterial disease.

Hypertension is often a treatable condition. Diet change and exercise can impact mild cases of hypertension. More severe cases may require medications to bring under control.

Hypertension impacts a one quarter of the American population. It is a dangerous condition that may lead to heart attack, stroke or kidney failure.

Hypertension occurs when blood vessels become constricted, making it difficult for blood to pass through them. The blood pressure rises and makes the heart work harder.

Hypertension usually has no clear symptoms. Some people may experience headaches or dizziness in the morning but for most people there are no symptoms at all. This is the best reason to have one's blood pressure checked regularly.

There is a risk for high blood pressure if one:

• has a family history of hypertension
• has a pre-existing condition such as diabetes or kidney disease
• is male
• is of African-American descent
• is over 35 years of age
• smokes
• is obese or over 30 pounds overweight
• is taking oral contraceptives
• frequently consumes alcoholic beverages
• leads a sedentary lifestyle.

Tips for Lowering Your Blood Pressure:

• Most people can adopt lifestyle changes to prevent hypertension.
• Get one's blood pressure checked on a regular basis.
• Exercise regularly.
• Restrict saturated fat as much as possible.
• Incorporate plenty of whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables in the diet.
• Manage stress through a variety of techniques.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Limit daily cholesterol to no more than 100 mg. per 1000 calories of food.
• Stop smoking.
• Take any hypertension medications as directed.
• Lower sodium intake.