February 27, 2020
As we get older, our blood pressure begins to creep up. Also referred to as hypertension, high blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against the arteries is high enough to cause serious health problems. This medical condition doesn’t develop overnight – it takes years to develop and is usually not accompanied by any signs or symptoms. For this reason, it’s important to have a full understanding of your personal risk.
Here's some key information about the causes, symptoms and treatment of high blood pressure.
High blood pressure falls into two categories: primary, which develops gradually with no known causes, and secondary, which is caused by an underlying condition like obstructive sleep apnea, diabetes, thyroid problems, or blood vessel defects.
Risk factors for high blood pressure include age, family history, and being overweight. Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as tobacco and alcohol use, a sodium-heavy diet, and being physically inactive, can also contribute to high blood pressure.
Most people with high blood pressure don’t know they have it until an abnormally high blood pressure reading alerts their doctor to a possible problem. Only when your blood pressure becomes dangerously high will you experience symptoms like headaches, shortness of breath or nosebleeds.
Stay proactive and get your blood pressure checked at least every two years starting at age 18. Once you turn 40, it should be done at least once a year.
The best way to treat hypertension is a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. The most commonly prescribed medications are Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, beta blockers and calcium channel blockers.
Lifestyle changes include:
Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to damage to your arteries as well as an increased risk for aneurysm, kidney failure, blindness, stroke, heart failure and heart attack. The good news is that with the right treatment plan and changes to your lifestyle, you can help control your blood pressure.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information on this web site is for general information purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or health care provider on any matters relating to your health.
