What is High Blood Pressure? High blood pressure is a rise in pressure exerted by circulating blood on the artery walls as a normal response to stress and physical activity. However, if this pressure remains persistently high (high blood pressure as it is called), it can overwork your heart and arteries, making arterial disease, heart attacks and strokes more likely. Blood Pressure Measurement Medical practitioners record blood pressure as two values, the systolic (the pressure of the blood as it enters the aorta from the heart) and the diastolic (the pressure when the heart ventricles relax between beats). It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm hg). high blood pressure, or in other words, Hypertension or High Blood Pressure, is defined in an adult as a blood pressure greater than or equal to 140mm hg systolic pressure, or greater than or equal to 90mm hg diastolic pressure. However, a blood pressure reading above 140/90 indicates hypertension and is considered abnormal at any stage. High Blood Pressure Effects Coronary heart disease, leading to heart attack and stroke, is the main harm that can be caused by High Blood Pressure. Hence, we can realize the fact that High Blood Pressure can easily play with the lives of man. Can it Happen to Me? High Blood Pressure can occur to both children as well as adults. However, people above 35 years of age, have a greater chance of being attacked by High Blood Pressure. It is mostly common in African-Americans, middle-aged and elderly people, obese people, heavy drinkers, and women who take birth control pills. People suffering from diabetes mellitus, gout or kidney diseases are also prone to High Blood Pressure. Is There a Genetic Connection? Yes, High Blood Pressure can also run in families. So if your parents have a history of high blood pressure, try to keep an eye on your pressure. It may arise due to your genes. High blood pressure can also be contributed to high stress and tension levels. Therefore, it is important to reduce stress if there is a genetic connection to high blood pressure. Get regular, brisk exercise and eat a healthy diet. Check your pressure regularly and take necessary steps before it damages your heart! |
