Elevated Blood Pressure

Elevated blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is consistently too high. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number).

Causes and Risk Factors

Elevated blood pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Genetics: Family history can play a role in the development of high blood pressure.
• Age: Blood pressure tends to rise with age.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase blood pressure.
• Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise can contribute to high blood pressure.
• Sodium intake: Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure.
• Stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure.
• Certain medical conditions: Such as kidney disease, sleep apnea, and thyroid disorders.

Symptoms

In many cases, elevated blood pressure does not produce any noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience:

• Headaches
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nosebleeds
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision

Diagnosis

Elevated blood pressure is typically diagnosed using a sphygmomanometer, which measures the pressure in the arteries. The American Heart Association recommends the following blood pressure categories:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
• Elevated: 120-129/80 mmHg
• Stage 1 hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
• Stage 2 hypertension: 140 or higher/90 or higher mmHg

Treatment and Management

Treatment for elevated blood pressure typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes may include:

• Increasing physical activity
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Reducing sodium intake
• Quitting smoking
• Losing weight if necessary

Medications used to treat high blood pressure include:

• Diuretics: Help remove excess fluid from the body.
• Beta blockers: Slow the heart rate and reduce blood pressure.
• ACE inhibitors: Relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.
• Calcium channel blockers: Relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.

Complications

If left untreated, elevated blood pressure can lead to a range of complications, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney disease
• Vision loss
• Cognitive decline

Regular monitoring and management of blood pressure can help prevent these complications and reduce the risk of long-term damage.