High blood pressure can be fatal if untreated

HPB is a common and complex disease that has become a worldwide epidemic affecting one in three adults.

HBP is largely a symptom-less condition, but can be fatal if left untreated.

“Everyone needs to know their blood pressure numbers to prevent HPB from affecting them,” said Kerry Oliver of The Diet Everyone Talks About.

According to WebMD.com, a blood pressure reading has a top number (systolic) and bottom number (diastolic). People whose blood pressure is above the normal range should consult their doctor about steps to take to lower it.

The ranges are as follows:

• Normal: Less than 120 over 80 (120/80)
• Prehypertension: 120-139 over 80-89
• Stage 1 high blood pressure: 140-159 over 90-99
• Stage 2 high blood pressure: 160 and above over 100 and above
• High blood pressure in people over age 60: 150 and above over 90 and above.

Below are five causes of HBP which The Diet Everyone Talks About explored: 

Excessive weight: According to Dr Robin Miller, “Being overweight and/or obese can cause high blood pressure in a variety of ways.  When there is increased weight it takes more pressure to move the blood around the body.  When the weight gain is in the abdominal area, there is a greater risk for high blood pressure because this type of fat is more likely to cause the arteries to become thick and stiff. When the pipes (the blood vessels) get stiff, it is harder to push the blood through. When it gets hard to move blood around the body there is an increase in adrenaline.

Lack of physical activity: People who are inactive tend to have higher heart rates. The higher your heart rate, the harder your heart must work with each contraction and the stronger the force on your arteries. Lack of physical activity also increases the risk of being overweight.

Smoking: Apart from raising BP, chemicals in tobacco can damage the lining of your artery walls. This can cause your arteries to narrow which leads to an increase in your blood pressure.

High level of salt: Too much sodium in your diet can cause your body to retain fluid, which increases blood pressure. The raised blood pressure may damage the arteries leading to the brain.

Family History: HBP is hereditary and hence the need for regular blood pressure checks. Although one cannot control heredity, but taking steps to live a healthy life can lower the risk factors.

HBP develops over years, and affects nearly everyone. Once BP has been detected one must work with a doctor to make lifestyle changes.

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