The Dangers Associated with Hypertension

The numbers are sobering. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about half of all American adults have high blood pressure, and just one-fourth of them have the condition under control. This indicates that 75% of Americans with hypertension are at an elevated risk of dying from heart disease and stroke.

There is some excellent news. Even if high blood pressure is completely out of control in the United States, we have the ability to reverse the trend. Unlike many other health disorders, every one of us has the capacity to manage or avoid high blood pressure. Small adjustments can make all the difference; the key is to begin.

Know your statistics

Blood pressure is defined as the amount of force exerted against the arterial walls. It is described by two numbers: systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number) (bottom number). The systolic measurement measures the amount of arterial pressure when the heart contracts. The diastolic reading measures the arterial blood pressure when the heart is at rest. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 millimetres of mercury. If your results are routinely higher than 130/80, you have high blood pressure.

Don't wait for symptoms to appear

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is commonly referred to as "the silent killer" because it rarely manifests any symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to monitor your blood pressure frequently and consult a carilion family medicine physician if you observe any changes. High blood pressure is a disorder that develops slowly over time, therefore people with normal blood pressure can be examined once a year. Those with higher numbers require more frequent monitoring. At-home monitors can be acquired from most pharmacies and big box retailers. As an alternative, several of these establishments provide free blood pressure screenings at self-service kiosks that are simple to use.