High blood pressure or hypertension mean high pressure or tension in the arteries.
Arteries are vessels that carry blood from the heart to all the tissues and organs of the body. A family history of this condition increases the risk of a person developing hypertension.
Other factors such as lazy lifestyles, obesity and A high salt intake can increase blood pressure. Hypertension is also related to aging. Birth control pills, steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs can also raise your blood pressure.
People with high blood pressure usually feel perfectly well for years. This is because the heart, brain and kidneys can resist pressure for long periods.
But this does not mean it is not damaging them. If high blood pressure is not treated, it can cause heart problems which can result in constant tiredness, shortness of breath and swollen ankles. That is why high blood pressure is known as the silent killer.
You need to check your blood pressure on a regular basis. High blood pressure can also cause arteries to clog up faster. This can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
You need to have your blood pressure taken regularly if:
- You or your family have a history of high blood pressure, stroke or heart attack
- If you have raised blood pressure, blood cholesterol or diabetes
- If you are pregnant
- If you are taking an oral contraceptive pill
- If you have had high pressure during pregnancy
- If you are overweight
- If you smoke.
You can control your blood pressure by:
- Having a healthy balanced diet
- Not being overweight
- Not having a high salt intake. Eat more fresh foods and foods which are low in salt
- Not having more than two glasses of alcohol or avoiding it altogether
- Exercising – strenuous exercise should be avoided if you are hypertensive
- Always taking your prescribed medication
- Not smoking.
For further info or testing of your blood pressure visit your nearest local clinic.
