High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common yet silent danger that affects millions of people around the world.

It is a condition in which the blood pressure in a person’s arteries is consistently higher than it should be, putting extra strain on the heart and other organs. Over time, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems and even death if left untreated.

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries as it flows through them.

It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is represented by two numbers – systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number).

Systolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries when the heart pumps out blood, while diastolic pressure is the pressure between heartbeats when the heart is at rest.

A blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg or lower is considered normal, while a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered high blood pressure.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

There are many factors that can contribute to high blood pressure, including:.

Age
Gender (men are at higher risk)
Family history of high blood pressure
Being overweight or obese
Physical inactivity
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Stress
High salt intake
Chronic kidney disease
Sleep apnea
Some medications

Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is often referred to as the silent killer because it often has no signs or symptoms. People may have high blood pressure for years without knowing it, which is why it is important to have regular check-ups with your doctor.

In some cases, people with high blood pressure may experience:.

Headaches
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Blurred vision

Complications of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can cause a range of serious health problems, including:.

Heart attack
Stroke
Kidney failure
Heart failure
Vision loss
Aneurysm

Preventing and Managing High Blood Pressure

Fortunately, high blood pressure can often be prevented or managed with lifestyle changes and medication. Here are some ways to reduce your risk of high blood pressure or keep your blood pressure under control:.

Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a healthy diet, low in salt and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
Exercise regularly
Quit smoking
Limit alcohol consumption
Manage stress through relaxation techniques
Take medication as prescribed by your doctor

Conclusion

High blood pressure is a serious yet silent danger that can have devastating consequences if left untreated. However, with regular check-ups, lifestyle changes, and medication, it can often be prevented or managed.

Make sure to speak with your doctor about your blood pressure and how to keep it at a healthy level.