Hypertension
Blood pressure is the force with which your blood pushes against the walls of your arteries. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition that results from this force being higher than normal for a long period of time. If it is left uncontrolled, hypertension can lead to
more life-threatening issues like heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
Symptoms
Most people with hypertension do not have any signs or symptoms. It is important to check your own blood pressure periodically because that is the only way to know if your blood pressure is higher than normal.
Risk Factors
There are many factors that can increase your risk of hypertension. This condition is genetic, meaning it runs in families. Also, obesity and lack of physical activity can put you at risk. A lifestyle full of alcohol, tobacco, and foods high in sodium increases your risk as well. If you already have a condition such as kidney disease or diabetes, this can increase your risk of developing hypertension.
Prevention/Treatement
Lifestyle changes including a diet with less salt, limiting alcohol consumption, and increasing
physical activity can naturally help with high blood pressure. However, if hypertension persists
despite these changes, it may be necessary to start taking prescription medications. It is
important to visit a local clinic or physician so that these medications can be prescribed to you if
need be.