High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition where the long-term force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the amount of resistance to blood flow in your arteries. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Often, high blood pressure has no noticeable symptoms. This is why it is frequently referred to as "the silent killer." Many people can have high blood pressure for years without knowing it. In some cases, severe hypertension can cause symptoms like headaches, shortness of breath, or nosebleeds, but these signs are not specific and usually don't occur until blood pressure has reached a critically dangerous level.

Causes and Risk Factors

There are two main types of high blood pressure: primary (essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension.

Primary Hypertension: This type develops gradually over many years, and there is often no identifiable cause. Factors that can increase your risk include:

• Age: The risk increases as you age.
• Family history: If your parents or siblings have high blood pressure, you're more likely to develop it.
• Obesity or being overweight.
• High sodium intake.
• Low potassium intake.
• Lack of physical activity.
• Excessive alcohol consumption.
• Stress.
• Smoking.

Secondary Hypertension: This type is caused by an underlying condition. It tends to appear suddenly and cause higher blood pressure than primary hypertension. Conditions that can lead to secondary hypertension include kidney disease, thyroid problems, certain birth defects of the blood vessels, and some medications.

Diagnosis of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure using an inflatable arm cuff. A blood pressure reading is given as two numbers: the top number (systolic) measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, and the bottom number (diastolic) measures the pressure in your arteries between beats. A normal blood pressure reading is typically less than 120/80 mm Hg. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial for early detection, especially since symptoms are often absent.

Normal Blood Pressure
Systolic: Less than 120 mmHg
Diastolic: And less than 80 mmHg

Elevated Blood Pressure
Systolic: 120-129 mmHg
Diastolic: And less than 80 mmHg

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension Stage 1)
Systolic: 130-139 mmHg
Diastolic: Or 80-89 mmHg

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension Stage 2)
Systolic: 140 mmHg or higher
Diastolic: Or 90 mmHg or higher

Hypertensive Crisis (Requires immediate medical attention)
Systolic: Higher than 180 mmHg
Diastolic: And/or higher than 120 mmHg

It's important to note that these are general guidelines. A single high reading does not necessarily mean you have high blood pressure. Consistent high readings over time are what indicate hypertension. Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Management and Prevention

Managing and preventing high blood pressure often involves lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk or help manage the condition:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, and low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
• Limiting alcohol consumption.
• Quitting smoking.
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques.

If lifestyle changes are not enough to control your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication. It's important to take any prescribed medications as directed and continue regular monitoring with your healthcare provider.

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