First let us look at what blood pressure is. When the heart pumps blood throughout the body it exerts pressure against the arteries that carry the blood. High blood pressure occurs in the body for a number of reasons such as diet and heredity. It should be monitored closely because unchecked, high blood pressure, or hypertension as it is commonly known, can cause many health problems including death.
There are two numbers associated with blood pressure, the diastolic and systolic. The systolic is the first or top number and refers to the pressure on the arteries that is exerted when the heart contracts. The bottom number of diastolic refers to the pressure on the arteries when the heart is at rest. High blood pressure is when the systolic is 140 or above and the diastolic is 90 or above.
High Blood pressure is sometimes called the silent killer. For some people it does not have any overt symptoms, it is only during a routine doctor’s visit that an elevated blood pressure is detected. An evaluated blood pressure one time does not mean you have high blood pressure. A diagnosis is made after a number of persistent high blood pressure readings are recorded.
These readings can be done at home. A good sphygmometer, or blood pressure instrument, is important for accurate reading. There are many blood pressure monitors that can be purchased now that are as accurate as those found in hospitals and doctors offices. You should have your doctor’s office show you have to use a blood pressure cuff correctly so that your readings are accurate. A doctor may perform other tests such as EKG’s and blood tests. These can help determine the cause of the high blood pressure and to assess whether there is any organ damage caused by high blood pressure.
High Blood pressure untreated can lead to renal failure, coronary disease and even stroke. There are a number of medicines that can be administered and diets that can eliminate foods such as salt that are linked with high blood pressure.
There certain people at risk for high blood pressure. Obesity among adults and children is one risk factor. This can occur in conjunction with atherosclerosis which can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. There can be a hereditary link as well. If your parents or family has a history of high blood pressure or heart conditions, it is a good idea to let your doctor know so that you can be monitored. In some pregnancies mother’s can develop high blood pressure. This is generally a benign condition but one that can cause other problems such as pre-eclampsia.
High Blood pressure is a very treatable disorder. Early detection and diagnosis is the key. It is also imperative that treatment regimens are followed and that your monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis. Your blood pressure varies from day to day and even from minute to minute, but it is the overall picture and consistent high blood pressure readings that are important to watch.
Once you have been diagnosed with hypertension you might find arranging holiday insurance more complicated and expensive. Read our hypertension travel guide to find out what you can do.
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