Understanding High Blood Pressure: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common problem that affects the blood vessels. While causes can vary, hypertension must be treated in order to prevent serious health problems.

Healthy Levels

• Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg. Anything above that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Hypertension is diagnosed as any level above 140/90 mm Hg.

Preexisting Conditions

• Hypertension often develops gradually and is brought on by an unidentifiable cause. However, in about 10 percent of cases, hypertension is caused by a preexisting condition. Some of these conditions include kidney abnormalities, tumors, and heart defects.

Hereditary Risk Factors

• There are many hereditary risk factors that put you at greater risk for hypertension. You cannot control these risk factors. They include race, age, and family history.

Lifestyle Risk Factors

• Being overweight and physically inactive can greatly increase the risk of hypertension. Others factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, and high stress.

Dangers of Hypertension

• Hypertension can lead to serious health problems. When blood pressure is high, it damages the blood vessels. This can cause heart disease, blood clots, and heart attacks.