High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a long-term medical condition that affects the heart and blood vessels. It can cause a variety of health issues, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and even certain medications. Some of the most common causes include:
• Poor diet: Eating a diet that is high in sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol can increase the risk of high blood pressure.
• Lack of physical activity: Exercise helps to keep the heart and blood vessels healthy, but if physical activity is not part of a person's lifestyle, it can lead to high blood pressure.
• Stress: Stress can cause the body to release hormones that can make the heart beat faster and raise blood pressure.
• Age: As people age, their risk of developing high blood pressure increases.
How Is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
High blood pressure is usually diagnosed during a routine medical checkup. A doctor will take a person's blood pressure reading to determine if it is within a normal range. If the reading is higher than normal, the doctor may order additional tests to confirm a diagnosis of hypertension.
How Is High Blood Pressure Treated?
High blood pressure can be treated with lifestyle changes, medications, and other therapies. Common lifestyle modifications include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Medications, such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, and diuretics, can be prescribed to help reduce blood pressure. In some cases, surgery may be required to treat more severe cases of hypertension.