Do you know what hypertension is? It’s a condition that affects millions of people around the world and can lead to some very serious health problems if it’s not treated. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 of the most common causes of hypertension.
If you are at risk for hypertension, or if you have been diagnosed with the condition, it is important to be aware of these causes and take steps to address them.
What Is Hypertension?
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of your blood against the insides of your arteries is too high.
Measurement Of Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is measured by two numbers:
Systolic
The force at which your blood flow against the insides of your arteries when your heart beats is called systolic pressure.
Diastolic
Diastolic pressure is the force at which your blood flows against the insides of your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
Normal blood pressure for adults is 120/80 mmHg. A reading above 140/90 mmHg indicates you have hypertension. The higher the first number, the higher your risk for developing heart disease or stroke.
How Is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?
A blood pressure monitor is used to diagnose high blood pressure. This is a standard test performed at every doctor’s appointment. A band (cuff) will be placed around your arm by a nurse. A small pump and a meter are connected to the band.
Find out more about how to prevent high blood pressure.
10 Causes of Hypertension
High blood pressure, often known as hypertension, is a condition in which the force of your blood against the walls of your arteries is high enough to cause health issues such as heart disease.
There are many possible causes of hypertension, including:
Family History
If you have a family member with hypertension, you’re more likely to develop the condition yourself.
Age
The risk of hypertension increases as you age.
Obesity
Excess weight can increase the risk of hypertension.
Sedentary lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle (one that involves little or no physical activity) can increase the risk of hypertension.
Smoking
Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for hypertension.
Too Much Salt In Your Diet
Eating foods that are high in salt can increase the risk of hypertension.
Stress
Chronic stress can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
Alcohol Abuse
Drinking too much alcohol can cause hypertension.
Preeclampsia
This is a condition that can occur during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
Sleep Apnea
This is a condition in which you stop breathing for brief periods during sleep, and it may contribute to hypertension.
Types Of Hypertension
Primary Hypertension
Primary hypertension is the most common type of hypertension, accounting for 95% of all cases. The exact cause of primary hypertension is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Secondary Hypertension
Secondary hypertension is much less common, accounting for only 5% of all cases. It occurs when an underlying condition such as kidney disease or endocrine disorders causes an increase in blood pressure.
Resistant Hypertension
Resistant hypertension is a type of hypertension that is resistant to treatment with medications.
White Coat Hypertension
White coat hypertension occurs when persons have high blood pressure readings at the doctor’s office but normal readings at home.
Malignant hypertension
Malignant hypertension is a rare and severe type of hypertension that can lead to organ damage.
Hypertension is a serious condition that can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems. If you have hypertension, it is important to work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that can help keep your blood pressure under control.
Diagnosis Of Hypertension
If you have hypertension, your healthcare provider will likely recommend lifestyle changes and medication to help lower your blood pressure. Making these changes can help prevent or delay the development of more serious health problems.
Lifestyle changes that may help to lower blood pressure include:
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt and fat
- Getting regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Quitting smoking
Your healthcare provider may also prescribe medication to help lower your blood pressure. Several different types of medication can be used to treat hypertension, and your healthcare provider will work with you to determine which type is right for you.
Conclusion
Hypertension is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get your blood pressure checked regularly by a healthcare professional.
If you have high blood pressure, there are treatments available that can help lower it and reduce your risk of developing health problems. So don’t wait, get your blood pressure checked today!