What is high blood pressure?
A person is said to have high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) when their blood pressure numbers are greater than 120/80. As the heart pumps the blood though arteries, the blood presses against the walls of the blood vessels. When arteries harden and constrict in arteriosclerosis, the blood is forced though a narrow passage way which leads to blood pressure elevation. According to the National Institute for Health, one in three US adults has high blood pressure.
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Some people experience no symptoms of high blood pressure while others experience a wide range of symptoms. Symptoms of high blood pressure might include headaches, irritability, flushed complexion, and dizziness.
How can I avoid getting high blood pressure?
There are several things you can avoid to lower your risks of getting high blood pressure. Talk to your doctor to get more recommendations.
Don't Smoke: Smoking can severely increase your risk of developing high blood pressure.
Avoid Stress: Being stressed can lead to high blood pressure. Make sure you take time to unwind and decompress, especially if you are usually stressed out. Exercise has also been proven to keep stress levels down.
Maintain a Healthy Body Weight: Obesity can lead to high blood pressure along with many other health problems.
Avoid Caffeine: Excessive caffeine use can contribute to the development of high blood pressure.
Examine Medications: Some medications have high blood pressure as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you think one of your medications is the cause of your high blood pressure.
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