High Blood Pressure, also known as hypertension, is one of the most commonly managed problems by doctors around the Western world. The American Heart Association estimates that about 74 million people in the United States suffer from high blood pressure, with approximately 13 million in the UK and 4 million in Australia.
Hypertension, also known as HTN or HPN, is a medical condition in which the blood pressure is chronically elevated.
Hypertension can be classified as either essential (primary) or secondary. Essential hypertension indicates that no specific medical cause can be found to explain a patient's condition. About 95% of hypertension is essential hypertension. Secondary hypertension indicates that the high blood pressure is a result of (i.e., secondary to) another condition, such as kidney disease or tumours.
Even moderate elevation of arterial blood pressure leads to shortened life expectancy. At severely high pressures, defined as mean arterial pressures 50% or more above average, a person can expect to live no more than a few years unless appropriately treated.
Here is an explanation of the three most important reasons, why you should monitor your blood pressure.
High Blood Pressure can cause serious health problems
High blood pressure can lead to serious problems such as a heart attack, a stroke, heart failure or kidney disease.
People with high blood pressure are more likely to develop coronary artery disease (blocked arteries) because high blood pressure puts added force against the artery walls. Over time, this extra pressure can damage the arteries. As a result these are more likely to become narrowed and hardened by fatty deposits.
Damaged arteries cannot deliver enough oxygen to other parts of the body. For this reason, high blood pressure can harm the brain and kidneys. High blood pressure also increases the risk for stroke, congestive heart failure, kidney disease, and blindness.
High Blood Pressure often remains undiagnosed and untreated
High blood pressure usually does not give warning signs, and therefore often remains undiagnosed and untreated. You can have high blood pressure and feel perfectly well.
The only way to find out if your blood pressure is high is by having it checked regularly by your doctor.
Risks associated with High Blood Pressure are increased by lifestyle choices
The risks of serious problems associated with high blood pressure are increased by the lifestyle you lead. This includes:
* smoking
* having high blood cholesterol
* being overweight
* having diabetes.
You should have your blood pressure measured by a health professional at least once a year and make healthy lifestyle choices to reduce your risk of high blood pressure and the associated health problems.
Author Resource:-
Janna J. is the resident writer of the 50K Challenge, a campaign dedicated to educating people about their heart health and a healthy lifestyle.
Claim your free video course at http://www.50kin50daychallenge.com.au.
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