High blood pressure is also called Hypertension. Normally, blood flows evenly through the arteries as the heart pumps, however as blood pressure increases the force of blood pushes harder against the walls of the arteries. The higher the blood pressure the harder the heart pumps and the more strain on the walls of the arteries. This is a serious condition that can lead to coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other serious health problems.
Symptoms of Hypertension
You can have high blood pressure for years without even knowing it. During this time, it can damage your heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of your body. Some people learn that they have high blood pressure after they experience a stroke, coronary heart disease, or kidney failure.
Here is a table that shows normal blood pressure levels for adults, and which numbers might put you at risk for health problems.
How Can High Blood Pressure Be Prevented?
If you have abnormal blood pressure, you can adopt these healthy lifestyle habits to maintain normal blood pressure.
- Follow a healthy diet. Limit sodium and alcohol intake.
- Be physically active. Regular exercise can help lower blood pressure and reduce your risk of other health problems.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Staying at a healthy weight can help you control your blood pressure and reduce your risk for other health problems.
- Quit smoking. Smoking can damage blood vessels and raise your risk for high blood pressure.
- Manage stress. Learning how to manage and cope with your stress can improve your emotional and physical health.
Media
