High blood pressure is a common medical condition that affects many people worldwide. It is also known as the "silent killer" because it often presents no clear symptoms, leading to serious health risks like strokes, heart disease, and kidney failure.
Definition of High Blood PressureHigh blood pressure is diagnosed when the pressure in the arteries remains consistently elevated. Blood pressure is measured in two values: systolic pressure (the upper number), which measures the pressure when the heart contracts, and diastolic pressure (the lower number), which measures the pressure when the heart rests between beats. A reading above 130/80 mmHg is considered high blood pressure.
Causes of High Blood Pressure:There are several causes of high blood pressure, including:
- Genetic factors
- Obesity and being overweight.
- An unhealthy lifestyle, such as lack of physical activity and high intake of fatty foods and sodium.
- Smoking
- Chronic stress
- Aging
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure In most cases, high blood pressure shows no clear symptoms. However, some people may experience headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds in severe cases.
Treatment for High Blood PressureBlood pressure can be controlled through lifestyle changes, such as:
- Regular exercise.
- Eating a balanced diet.
- Reducing sodium and caffeine intake.
- Quitting smoking.
- Medication in some cases, as recommended by a doctor.
