High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects one in three adults in the United States. Hypertension is a medical condition in which the pressure of the blood in the arteries is consistently too high. When left untreated, hypertension can lead to a number of serious health problems such as heart attacks, stroke, and kidney failure. Fortunately, there are many ways to manage and control high blood pressure.
In this blog, we’ll discuss what hypertension is, the risks associated with it, and how to manage and control high blood pressure.
What is Hypertension?
- Hypertension is a medical condition in which the pressure of the blood in the arteries is consistently too high.
- It is usually defined as having a systolic blood pressure (the top number) of 140 or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) of 90 or higher.
- Hypertension is also referred to as “the silent killer” because it often has no symptoms and can go undetected for years.
Risks of Hypertension
- High blood pressure increases the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions.
- Hypertension can damage the blood vessels, leading to an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
- High blood pressure can also cause kidney damage, leading to kidney failure.
How to Manage and Control High Blood Pressure
- Maintain a healthy diet. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower blood pressure.
- Exercise regularly. Regular physical activity can help reduce blood pressure and improve overall health.
- Reduce sodium intake. Eating too much sodium can increase blood pressure. It is recommended to limit sodium to 2,300 mg per day.
- Reduce stress. Stress can raise blood pressure, so it is important to find ways to manage and reduce stress.
- Take medications as prescribed. If lifestyle changes alone are not enough to lower blood pressure, medications may be necessary.
Hypertension is a serious medical condition that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many ways to manage and control high blood pressure, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, reducing sodium intake, reducing stress, and taking medications as prescribed. By following these tips, you can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing serious health problems.
