High Blood Pressure

Blood Pressure is a measure of the pressure of the blood against the walls of the arteries. The blood pressure readings are a ratio of the maximum or systolic pressure, as the heart pushes the blood out to the body, written over the minimum or diastolic pressure, as the heart begins to fill with blood.

Hypertension or high blood pressure is the result of persistent high arterial blood pressure that may cause damage to the vessels and arteries of the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. The entire circulatory system is affected since it becomes increasingly more difficult for the blood to travel from the heart to major organs.

Modern lifestyles tend to increase blood pressure, causing hypertension. Some of the known factors include: inactive lifestyle, overweight, smoking, high salt intake, stress, excessive alcohol consumption and genetic factors.

There are several different types of hypertension. Primary hypertension is the most common type and it is generally improved by a healthier lifestyle and medication when needed. Secondary hypertension is the result of a disorder or abnormality of the kidney, adrenal gland or other vital organ. This less common type of hypertension is often treated surgically. Hypertension may also occur during pregnancy and requires special attention.

Most people with hypertension have no symptoms. A very limited number of people with hypertension may experience headaches, blurred vision and chest pain. Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to stroke, heart attack, congestive heart failure or kidney failure.
According to recent estimates for the United States, one in four adults has high blood pressure and—because most people don't have symptoms—nearly a third of these people don't know they have it. This is why high blood pressure is often called "the silent killer."

Hypertension is one of the most common chronic diseases for which treatment is available. However, most people with hypertension go untreated. Blood pressure less than 120/80 is generally considered ideal, but only your healthcare provider can determine if your blood pressure is safe.

(Reprinted from the Redstone Arsenal, Ala., Redstone Rocket)