High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure , also known as hypertension , is when your blood pressure is consistently greater than 140/90mmHG.

When blood is forced through the circulatory system at this level constantly, it can damage the lining of blood vessels which leads to hardening and furring up of the arteries .

Most people have no symptoms of high blood pressure and are not aware that they may suffer from this condition. The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to have it measured .

Undiagnosed high blood pressure can result in long term damage and lead to a stroke, angina, heart failure or a heart attack. The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment can control your blood pressure and keep you healthy so it is vitally important to have it checked regularly.

Causes of High Blood Pressure - Hypertension

Smoking
Diabetes
Overweight
Stress
Lack of exercise
Excessive salt intake
High blood fat level due to dietary and hereditary factors
High alcohol consumption
Side effects of some drugs

Prevention and treatment of High Blood Pressure - Hypertension

Everyone who has high blood pressure should make
changes to their lifestyle.

In a few people these changes can be enough to lower blood pressure to a level where tablets may not be needed. If tablets are necessary, lifestyle changes will make them more effective. Lifestyle changes should be adopted by the whole family, as, increasing evidence suggests that this will lower blood pressure and prevent high blood pressure from occurring later in life.  

A healthy diet will also make you feel better generally. The main ways to reduce your high blood pressure are set out below.

Stop smoking
Drink less alcohol
Eat less salt
Eat more fruit and veg
Take exercise
Lose weight
Reduce stress

For more information relating to high blood pressure - hypertension please visit the websites below.

Blood Pressure Association

British Hypertension Society

British Heart Foundation

HEART UK

The Stroke Association

High Blood Pressure Foundation

Blood Pressure Chart - US site to record, track, chart and share your readings with your doctor.