High Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease. Blood pressure is measured with two numbers: systolic blood pressure (the top number) and diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number). High blood pressure is diagnosed when your systolic blood pressure is consistently 140 mmHg or higher or your diastolic blood pressure is 90 mmHg or higher. This condition, if left uncontrolled, can lead to many dangerous complications.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

In many cases, the cause of high blood pressure is unknown (primary hypertension). However, several risk factors can increase your chances of developing the condition, including:

• Family history: A family history of high blood pressure.
• Unhealthy diet: High intake of salt, saturated fats, and cholesterol.
• Lack of physical activity: Insufficient physical activity.
• Smoking: Smoking increases blood pressure and damages blood vessels.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol increases blood pressure and can cause liver damage.
• Obesity: High BMI increases the risk of high blood pressure.
• Stress: Prolonged stress.
• Kidney disease: Kidney disease can cause secondary hypertension.
• Lack of sleep: Insufficient sleep disrupts the biological clock and can increase blood pressure.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Many people with high blood pressure have no symptoms at all. This is why regular blood pressure checks are so important. However, some people may experience symptoms such as:

• Severe headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Blurred vision
• Chest pain

Preventing High Blood Pressure

To prevent high blood pressure, you should:

• Eat a healthy diet: Reduce salt, saturated fats, and cholesterol in your diet. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise regularly: At least 30 minutes a day.
• Lose weight if overweight or obese.
• Quit smoking.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Manage stress effectively.
• Get enough sleep.
• Have regular blood pressure checks.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your doctor for the best advice and treatment.