High Blood Pressure and Life Expectancy
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a medical condition that can have a significant impact on overall health and life expectancy. Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious complications, such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Therefore, it is important to understand the effects of high blood pressure on life expectancy and to take steps to manage the condition.
Hypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure reading of 140 mm Hg or higher and a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher. It is estimated that one in three adults in the United States have high blood pressure.
How Does High Blood Pressure Affect Life Expectancy?
High blood pressure increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, which can lead to an early death. Studies have shown that people with hypertension are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke than those without hypertension. In addition, uncontrolled hypertension can lead to kidney damage, which can also reduce life expectancy.
Managing Hypertension
The good news is that hypertension can be managed with lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication. Eating a healthy, balanced diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption can help to reduce blood pressure. In addition, quitting smoking can also help to lower blood pressure. If lifestyle changes alone are not enough to lower blood pressure, a doctor may prescribe medication to help control the condition.
Taking steps to manage hypertension can help to reduce the risk of developing serious medical complications and can help to improve life expectancy.