High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is recorded with two numbers: systolic and diastolic.

Blood Pressure Readings

• Systolic Pressure (top number): The pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
• Diastolic Pressure (bottom number): The pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.

Blood Pressure Categories

According to the American Heart Association, blood pressure is categorized as follows:

1. Normal:
   • Systolic: less than 120 mm Hg
   • Diastolic: less than 80 mm Hg
2. Elevated:
   • Systolic: 120-129 mm Hg
   • Diastolic: less than 80 mm Hg
3. Hypertension Stage 1:
   • Systolic: 130-139 mm Hg
   • Diastolic: 80-89 mm Hg
4. Hypertension Stage 2:
   • Systolic: 140 mm Hg or higher
   • Diastolic: 90 mm Hg or higher
5. Hypertensive Crisis: (emergency care needed)
   • Systolic: higher than 180 mm Hg
   • Diastolic: higher than 120 mm Hg

WHAT IS HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE?

Causes of High Blood Pressure

• Primary (Essential) Hypertension: No identifiable cause; develops gradually over many years.
• Secondary Hypertension: Caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease, adrenal gland tumors, thyroid problems, certain medications, or obstructive sleep apnea.

Risk Factors

• Age: Risk increases with age.
• Family History: Hypertension can run in families.
• Obesity: Excess weight increases the risk.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of physical activity can contribute to weight gain and hypertension.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco raises blood pressure.
• High Salt Intake: Excess sodium in the diet can increase blood pressure.
• Low Potassium Intake: Potassium helps balance sodium levels in cells.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.
• Stress: High levels of stress can lead to a temporary increase in blood pressure.
• Chronic Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and sleep apnea can increase the risk.

Symptoms

High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no symptoms until significant damage has been done. However, in some cases, people with high blood pressure might experience:

• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Nosebleeds

These symptoms are not specific to hypertension and usually don’t occur until blood pressure has reached a dangerously high level.

Complications

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Heart attack or stroke
• Aneurysm
• Heart failure
• Weakened and narrowed blood vessels in the kidneys
• Thickened, narrowed, or torn blood vessels in the eyes
• Metabolic syndrome
• Trouble with memory or understanding
• Dementia

Prevention and Management

Managing high blood pressure involves lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Key strategies include:

• Healthy Diet: Following a balanced diet such as the DASH diet.
• Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity regularly.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Limiting Alcohol and Tobacco Use: Reducing or eliminating alcohol and quitting smoking.
• Stress Management: Practicing stress-reducing techniques.
• Regular Monitoring: Checking blood pressure regularly to keep track of any changes.

It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a plan that fits your needs and helps manage your blood pressure effectively.