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High Blood Pressure: Cause and Effect

We all know that maintaining a healthy blood pressure is key to our general wellness. But do you ever wonder: What does this actually mean?

Blood pressure refers to the force of our blood stream as it pushes on our artery walls while making its way through our bodies. Too much pressure can damage the arteries, leading to dangerous conditions.  

According to WebMD , hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the most common type of cardiovascular disease; it affects about 30% of American adults. Our blood pressure can rise, temporarily, for a variety of reasons that are normal and not cause for alarm; for example, exercising and getting good news can both have this result. When doctors start to worry, is when blood pressure is routinely measuring high, independent of activities that cause a temporary elevation.

Reading your pressure:
While the two numbers that measure blood pressure are key to good health, it's not always clear what they mean. The first, and higher, of the two numbers is the systolic pressure. That describes the force in your arteries when your heart beats. The second, lower number, is the diastolic pressure. This refers to the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats.

The American Heart Association  recommends taking blood pressure readings at the same time every day, and keeping a log of your results for your doctor. The association notes these ranges for blood pressure readings:

Normal/optimal range: less than 120/80
Elevated: 120-129/80
Hypertension stage 1 : 130-139/80-89
Hypertension stage 2: 140/90 (or higher)
Hypertension crisis: exceeds 180/120-If you get this reading, the American Heart Association recommends that you wait five minutes and take another blood pressure reading. If you get the same results, call your doctor. If you have any symptoms such as chest or back pain or difficultly seeing, breathing, or speaking, call 9-1-1.
 
Risk factors:
There are many lifestyle and dietary factors that can be amended if one finds that he or she has high blood pressure. Smokers, heavy drinkers, those who are inactive or overweight tend to fall in the high risk group for high blood pressure. There are other factors that can't be changed; for example, those over 55 are simply more prone to high blood pressure. Heredity also plays a role.

If you find that your blood pressure is high, talk with your doctor about strategies for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Conditions caused by hypertension:
Hypertension can cause an array of dangerous conditions including strokes, vision issues, heart attacks, and kidney failure. This is why it's so important to check blood pressure regularly and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Living the good life:
Here's the good news: inviting a heart healthy lifestyle is not that difficult. First, it requires exercise, so get out and walk, job, bowl, dance, swim; you may even give tai chi or yoga a try. Exercise is good for you on so many levels, and your heart loves it!

Eat good foods, including lots of fruits and veggies, and watch you salt. Pay special attention to prepared foods and those that can hide a lot of sodium like canned sauces and tomatoes. Also, keep a food journal and share any concerns or questions with your doctor.

Also, quit smoking and limit alcohol and caffeine intake. And talk with your doctor as you adopt new heart-healthy habits. He or she is you partner in healthcare, so don't hesitate to note your questions and ask for advice that you need.

Take good care of yourself, inside and out. Your heart will love you for it!


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