What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a chronic medical condition in which the force of blood flow against artery walls is too high. It occurs when the heart exerts more pressure than normal, in order to pump blood through the body. It is a condition that can lead to serious health complications, like heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

Types of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary high blood pressure is when there is no identifiable cause and is the most common form of hypertension. Secondary high blood pressure is when the high blood pressure is caused by another underlying medical condition. It is important to note that some people may experience a combination of the two types.

The Main Cause of High Blood Pressure

The main cause of high blood pressure is uncertain, but observational research has identified certain factors that have been linked to hypertension. These factors include: obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, drinking alcohol, stress, high sodium intake, inadequate intake of potassium and a family history of high blood pressure. Many of these risk factors can be changed, and lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking and managing stress can help to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and its complications.

It is important to have regular blood pressure checks, as many people with hypertension often have no symptoms. Keeping track of your blood pressure and making sure it is within the optimal health range is essential for protecting your health. If lifestyle modifications are not enough to reduce your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication.