Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently elevated, leading to a variety of health problems.

While hypertension can affect anyone, there are certain risk factors that make some individuals more prone to developing the condition than others.

Age

As we age, our blood vessels become less flexible and less able to expand and contract as needed. This makes older adults more prone to hypertension than younger adults.

Family History

If one or more of your close relatives has hypertension, your risk of developing the condition is increased. This is thought to be partly due to genetics and partly due to shared lifestyle factors.

Inactivity

Leading a sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk of developing hypertension. Regular exercise, on the other hand, can help to lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Unhealthy Diet

A diet high in sodium, saturated fat, and processed foods can contribute to the development of hypertension. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help to reduce your risk.

Obesity

Being overweight or obese puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of hypertension. Losing weight through a combination of diet and exercise can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Tobacco Use

Smoking and use of other tobacco products can harm the heart and blood vessels, making it more likely that an individual will develop hypertension.

Chronic Stress

Chronic stress can cause the body to release hormones that increase heart rate and narrow blood vessels, leading to hypertension over time.

Gender

Men are more likely than women to develop hypertension until age 45, at which point the risk becomes more equal between the genders.

Race

African Americans are more likely than individuals of other races to develop hypertension, and are also more likely to experience severe complications such as heart attack and stroke.

Medication Use

Certain medications, including some over-the-counter pain relievers and cold remedies, can raise blood pressure. Check with your doctor to make sure any medications you take won’t affect your blood pressure.

While some of these risk factors, such as age and family history, can’t be changed, others can be addressed through lifestyle changes such as exercise and a healthy diet.

By taking steps to lower your risk of hypertension, you can reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other complications associated with high blood pressure.