1. High Blood Pressure's a Quiet Killer
Although it's incredibly common, occurring in nearly 1/3 of the U.S. population, high blood pressure often creeps up on patients unnoticed. There are almost no regular signs or symptoms of elevated blood pressure, even when it reaches dangerously high levels, making it a very sneaky disease indeed. Fortunately, it's easy to detect--a simple visit with your family doctor or even an automated machine can clue you in to potential problems. Because of how quiet high blood pressure is, it's important for you to maintain a schedule of regular checkups to steer clear of bigger cardiovascular problems.
2. A Condition Without a Cause
The American Heart Association estimates that somewhere between 90 to 95 percent of all instances of high blood pressure don't have a cause. This type of high blood pressure is called "primary hypertension" and builds up over long periods of time until it becomes a serious health threat. The other kind of high blood pressure, called "secondary hypertension," pops up much more suddenly than primary hypertension and is caused by other serious health problems, such as congenital heart defects and tumors.
3. Know When to Seek Help
In general, your blood pressure should be below 120 over 88. The first number measures your systolic pressure, or the pressure in your arteries when they're at their fullest. The second number, your diastolic pressure, measures your blood pressure when your arteries are the least full. If your numbers are much higher than these averages, you should consult a physician about treatment. Also, although this is far less common, having extremely low blood pressure can also pose health risks as well and deserves medical attention.
4. Lifestyle Choices Trump All Risk Factors
Age is one risk factor that has a big influence on your blood pressure. As you get older, your blood pressure naturally rises, putting you at risk for heart problems and strokes. Another major risk factor is race: African Americans have a higher incidence of hypertension and its related conditions than whites. Perhaps the most important risk factor, however, is your general state of health. People who are overweight, sedentary, consume tobacco or lead stressful lives are much more likely to experience problems associated with high blood pressure.
5. Eat for Hypertension Prevention
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is a great way to eat well-balanced meals and lower your blood pressure. Its main goal is to get you eating lots of whole grains, fruits, low-fat dairy foods and fresh vegetables, which will help you lose weight and improve your overall sense of well-being. If you already suffer from hypertension, reducing the amount of sodium in your diet is also a good way to regulate your condition. Try lowering your sodium intake to somewhere around 1,500 mg a day to see the greatest effects.
