Isabella Carter
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health problem that affects almost half of all American adults. It is a silent killer, as it typically has no signs or symptoms, but it can lead to serious health complications and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Blood pressure is the force of blood flowing through blood vessels and is measured in two numbers: systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure measures the force of blood against artery walls when the heart beats, while diastolic blood pressure measures the force when the heart muscle rests between beats. High blood pressure is generally considered a reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher, with emergency medical attention required at 180/120 mm Hg or higher.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Systolic pressure | 130 mm Hg or higher |
| Diastolic pressure | 80 mm Hg or higher |
| Hypertensive crisis | 180/120 mm Hg |
| Hypertension categories | 4 |
| Symptoms | Chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, change in vision, difficulty speaking, heart attack, stroke |
| Risk factors | Age, gender, family history, environment, diabetes, obesity, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, lack of physical activity |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Systolic and diastolic pressure
Systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings are important indicators of a person's overall health. Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and is written as two numbers separated by a slash, for example, 120/80 mm Hg. The first number is the systolic pressure, and the second is the diastolic pressure.
Systolic blood pressure is the top number and refers to the amount of pressure experienced by the arteries while the heart is beating. It measures the force of blood against the artery walls while the ventricles (the lower two chambers of the heart) squeeze and push blood out to the rest of the body. This phase is called systole, and it is the point at which blood pressure is the highest. Systolic pressure is considered normal when the reading is below 120 mm Hg while a person is sitting quietly at rest. A systolic reading of 130 mm Hg or higher is considered high.
Diastolic blood pressure is the bottom number and refers to the amount of pressure in the arteries while the heart is resting between beats. It measures the force of blood against the artery walls as the heart relaxes and the ventricles refill with blood. Diastole is the period between heartbeats when the heart muscle relaxes and refills with blood, and it is also when the coronary artery supplies blood to the heart. Diastolic pressure is considered healthy when it is less than 80 mm Hg. Diastolic readings of 80 mm Hg or higher indicate high blood pressure.
Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings are important, but healthcare providers may pay more attention to systolic pressure, especially in older adults. This is because research links high systolic blood pressure to a higher risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke. However, diastolic blood pressure may be more important for predicting cardiovascular events in younger individuals.
There are multiple stages of high diastolic blood pressure. Diastolic pressure of 80-89 mm Hg is Stage 1 hypertension, which may be reversible with temporary medications and/or lifestyle changes. Diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher is Stage 2 hypertension, which significantly increases the risk of adverse health events and may require long-term medication. Diastolic pressure of 120 mm Hg or higher is considered a hypertensive crisis, and emergency medical attention is needed.
The Constitution's Missing Pieces: What's Not Covered?
You may want to see also
Hypertensive crisis
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common health problem that affects around half of all American adults. Many don't even know they have it. High blood pressure is generally defined as a reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher. It is important to get your blood pressure checked at least every two years starting at age 18, and more frequently if you are at a higher risk of hypertension.
There are two types of hypertensive crises, both of which require immediate attention. It is important for a healthcare professional to decide the steps for treatment. If you are experiencing a hypertensive crisis, do not wait to see if your blood pressure comes down on its own. Call for emergency medical help.
Symptoms of a hypertensive crisis may include chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, changes in vision, and difficulty speaking. Hypertensive crises can lead to target organ damage, including pulmonary edema, cardiac ischemia, neurologic deficits, acute renal failure, aortic dissection, and eclampsia.
To control or lower high blood pressure, your healthcare provider may recommend adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes a healthy diet, physical activity, and weight loss if you are overweight. They may also recommend medications to help control your blood pressure. Controlling your blood pressure is important to prevent serious health problems such as chronic kidney disease, heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and vascular dementia.
Stop and Frisk: Unconstitutional Intrusions and Excesses
You may want to see also
Risk factors
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common health problem that affects half of all American adults. It develops when blood flows through your arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. While there is no identifiable cause of high blood pressure in most adults, certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing this condition.
Family History and Age
High blood pressure can run in families, and your risk increases with age. If your parents or close blood relatives have high blood pressure, you are more likely to develop it too. As people age, their blood vessels gradually lose some of their elasticity, which can lead to increased blood pressure. However, it's important to note that children can also be at risk of developing high blood pressure.
Race and Ethnicity
Certain racial and ethnic groups, such as Black, Hispanic, and Asian adults, particularly males, have higher rates of high blood pressure. Historical, systemic, cultural, and dietary factors contribute to these differences.
Obesity
Obesity or being overweight means that the heart has to work harder to pump blood and oxygen around the body. Over time, this can add stress to the heart and blood vessels, leading to high blood pressure. Obesity is also associated with higher levels of "bad" cholesterol and lower levels of "good" cholesterol, further contributing to cardiovascular risks.
Unhealthy Diet and Lifestyle
An unhealthy diet, particularly one high in sodium (salt) and low in potassium, can increase your risk of high blood pressure. Some individuals, including Black people, older adults, and those with certain medical conditions, are more sensitive to salt in their diet. Lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and sleep apnea are also lifestyle factors that contribute to high blood pressure.
Medical Conditions and Medications
Certain medical conditions can increase your risk of high blood pressure, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome. Additionally, some medications can make it harder for your body to control blood pressure, such as antidepressants, decongestants, hormonal birth control pills, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Stress and Social Factors
Experiencing stress, danger, harm, or trauma, especially during childhood, may raise your risk of high blood pressure. Social factors such as income, education level, job type, and work shifts can also influence your risk. Experiencing discrimination and poverty have been linked to higher blood pressure.
Compromises: The Foundation of the US Constitution
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Lifestyle changes
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called a "silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms. High blood pressure quietly damages blood vessels and leads to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. While there is no cure for high blood pressure, making lifestyle changes can enhance your quality of life and reduce your risk of these diseases.
Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet can help lower your blood pressure. This includes eating more fruits and vegetables and choosing foods low in salt and sodium. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is specifically designed to help lower blood pressure and includes eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. The Mediterranean diet is also recommended for heart health and includes similar food groups. Reducing alcohol intake can also help lower blood pressure.
Weight Loss
Losing weight can help lower blood pressure, especially for people who are overweight or obese.
Physical Activity
Being physically active and reducing sedentary behavior can help lower blood pressure. Increasing physical activity can include exercising, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling, or simply taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
Smoking Cessation
Quitting smoking is crucial for improving blood pressure and overall health.
It is important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the best lifestyle changes for you and to monitor your blood pressure regularly. They may also recommend medications to help control your blood pressure if necessary.
Personal vs Commercial IP Use: Understanding the Difference
You may want to see also
Treatment
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is when your blood pressure is consistently too high. It is measured in two numbers: systolic and diastolic, which are written as a ratio, for example, 120/80 mm Hg. Systolic blood pressure is the force of blood flow when blood is pumped out of the heart. Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure between heartbeats when the heart is filling with blood. A healthy systolic blood pressure is less than 120 mm Hg, while a healthy diastolic pressure is less than 80 mm Hg.
High blood pressure is classified as having a systolic reading of 130 mm Hg or higher, or a diastolic reading of 80 mm Hg or higher. It is further divided into four categories: elevated blood pressure, stage 1 hypertension, stage 2 hypertension, and hypertensive crisis.
High blood pressure is a common but treatable condition. Treatment for high blood pressure should be prescribed by a healthcare professional and is based on blood pressure readings, the causes of high blood pressure, and any underlying conditions. Treatment typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can help to lower blood pressure and are often recommended as the first course of treatment for high blood pressure. These changes may include:
- Adopting a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH eating plan, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, or a Mediterranean diet. Increasing potassium and reducing sodium intake are also recommended.
- Getting regular physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior.
- Losing weight, if overweight or obese.
Medication
If lifestyle changes alone are insufficient to manage high blood pressure, medication may be prescribed. The need for medication is typically determined by the severity of the condition and the presence of other risk factors or underlying conditions, such as diabetes, heart failure, or kidney disease. In some cases, medication may be necessary to lower blood pressure to a healthy range.
It is important to regularly monitor blood pressure levels and work with a healthcare team to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Muslim Politicians: Constitution Oath, What's the Truth?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is when your blood pressure, the force of the blood flowing through your blood vessels, is consistently too high.
A healthy systolic blood pressure reading is less than 120 mm Hg, and a healthy diastolic pressure reading is less than 80 mm Hg.
High blood pressure is a systolic reading of 130 mm Hg or higher, or a diastolic reading of 80 mm Hg or higher.
A hypertensive crisis is when your blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg. If you experience this, you should call 911 or your local emergency number, especially if you are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or blurry vision.
You can control your blood pressure by making lifestyle changes, such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and losing weight. Your healthcare provider may also recommend medications to help control your blood pressure.
