High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition that affects nearly 1 in 3 adults in the United States. It is a leading cause of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.

Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it through the body. High blood pressure occurs when the force is too high.

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is a common condition that usually doesn’t have any symptoms. Many people do not know they have it. However, if it is not treated, it can lead to serious health problems. Blood pressure readings are expressed as two numbers.

The top number is systolic pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number is diastolic pressure, which is the pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.

What is a normal blood pressure reading?

A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. High blood pressure is a reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher. If your blood pressure is consistently high, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower it.

However, there are also lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk for high blood pressure.

What are the dangers of high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is a dangerous condition that can lead to serious health problems. The higher your blood pressure, the greater your risk for heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.

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High blood pressure can also damage the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to vision loss or blindness. In some cases, high blood pressure can cause erectile dysfunction in men. High blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby.

How can I lower my risk for high blood pressure?

There are several ways you can lower your risk for high blood pressure:.

1. Exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Exercise can help lower your blood pressure, increase your energy, and improve your overall health.
2. Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy can help lower your blood pressure.
3. Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for high blood pressure.
4. Reduce your salt intake. Salt can raise your blood pressure, so try to limit your intake to no more than 2,300 milligrams per day.
5. Limit your alcohol intake. Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure, so try to limit your intake to no more than 1-2 drinks per day for men and no more than 1 drink per day for women.
6. Quit smoking. Smoking can damage your blood vessels and increase your risk for high blood pressure. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit.
7. Manage stress. Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Try to find ways to manage your stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

When should I see a doctor?

If you are over 40 and have not had your blood pressure checked recently, it is a good idea to see your doctor for a checkup. If your blood pressure is consistently high, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower it.

Be sure to follow your doctor’s advice for managing your high blood pressure.

: The bottom line

High blood pressure is a common condition that can lead to serious health problems. It is important to know your blood pressure numbers and take steps to lower your risk for high blood pressure.

By making lifestyle changes such as exercising, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing your salt and alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and managing stress, you can lower your risk for high blood pressure and improve your overall health.