Hypertension

High blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension, is a disease suffered by almost every 1 out of 3 adults in the United States. The exact cause of blood pressure is unknown although there are precautionary measures one can follow in order to combat this illness. Hypertension results from the blood in the arteries moving through the heart at a higher pressure than normal. Unfortunately, there are many individuals who are unaware that they are suffering this illness and as a result, face the consequences of untreated high blood pressure.

A normal blood pressure is one that measures below 120/80, a blood pressure that reads between 120/80 and 140/90 is referred to as pre-hypertension. A reading above this is simply referred to as high blood pressure, or hypertension. Untreated high blood pressure may result in fatal illnesses such as having a heart attack or a stroke. It is therefore vital that anyone knowingly suffering from this illness have it treated as soon as possible. Hypertension is often called the 'silent disease'; this is because it does not show its symptoms for a long while (maybe even years) after the actual disease has developed. Symptoms of hypertension include dizziness in the head, headaches or migraines and nosebleeds.

There are many contributing factors to the disease of hypertension and for persons who suffer this illness, drastic changes in everyday lifestyle is an absolute necessity. If you suffer from hypertension it is important that you do not smoke or drink alcohol. Both these habits naturally increase a person's blood pressure flow, and with blood already passing through your arteries at a higher pressure it is not difficult to imagine why these lifestyles are so dangerous. Maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced diet are also two requirements necessary for the alleviation of hypertension, this includes drastically reducing salt and sodium intake. For any person suffering from high blood pressure, moderate daily exercise is a necessity in order to relax your body and de-stress. Stress, in adults of all ages has been proven to be one of the highest and primary contributing factors toward hypertension.

Every individual should have their blood pressure checked at least once every two years, and for person's who have suffered from hypertension before, a six month interval between check ups will suffice. Hypertension is a hereditary illness, if generations before you have suffered from this disease then it is very likely that you too will suffer from high blood pressure. For the individuals who find that lifestyle changes do not suffice in the alleviation of their hypertension then there are prescribed medications available. These medications may range from beta – blockers to alpha-blockers, each serving a particular purpose in the alleviation of your high blood pressure.