High blood pressure

Your blood pressure rises and falls during the day, depending on your activity and stress levels. If your pressure remains high for too long, it can cause damage to your heart and blood vessels.

Nearly half of U.S. adults are diagnosed with hypertension, but only 24 percent of those have their condition under control. There are lifestyle changes you can take to manage high blood pressure, as well as different forms of medication.

Known as the “silent killer,” hypertension has no obvious symptoms. It’s important to regularly check your blood pressure before damage is caused to the heart, blood vessels, and other organs. In rare and severe cases, hypertension can cause:

• Sweating
• Anxiety
• Sleeping problems
• Blushing

High blood pressure develops over time and is most often caused by:

• Obesity
• Insulin resistance
• High salt intake
• Excessive alcohol intake
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking

• Normal blood pressure = below 120 systolic and 80 diastolic mmHg
• Elevated blood pressure = 120 to 129 systolic and below 80 diastolic mmHg
• Stage 1 hypertension = 130 to 139 systolic and 80 to 89 diastolic mmHg
• Stage 2 hypertension = 140 systolic or higher or 90 diastolic mmHg or higher

• Age: Adults older than 60 are at a higher risk.
• Ethnicity: African Americans are more prone to hypertension.
• Weight: Obesity or being overweight increases your risk of high blood pressure.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop high blood pressure in middle age, while women are more likely to develop it at an older age.
• Existing conditions: Other cardiovascular conditions, along with chronic kidney disease, increase your risk of hypertension.

• Regular blood pressure screenings with your doctor
• Get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week
• No smoking
• Eat a healthy diet, including limiting sodium and alcohol
• Keep a healthy weight
• Manage stress