High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is caused by a consistently high force of blood traveling through the arteries. This is frequently caused by the narrowing of arteries which impedes the flow of blood. Per medical experts at Healthline, increasing age is a major risk factor for hypertension, but younger adults can develop it, too, depending upon factors such as genetics, diet, and weight. Let’s learn more.
It’s not just about old people
Per Healthline, “Although people over 65 years old are more at risk for high blood pressure, it also affects about 1 in 8 adults between 20 and 40 years of age.” Thus, blood pressure should be regularly monitored for all people as part of regular health checkups.
High blood pressure forces the heart to work too hard
High blood pressure happens when it takes too much force to push blood through the arteries. In turn, this forces the heart to work too hard. It is important to address high blood pressure as it can damage blood vessels and lead to life threatening problems with the heart, brain, and other organs. This can raise the chances of having heart attacks and strokes. Because early stages typically have no symptoms, having one’s blood pressure regularly monitored is key.
Taking one’s blood pressure is easy!
Having blood pressure taken is simple and pain-free. To diagnose high blood pressure, a healthcare professional will typically take a measure using a cuff placed around the upper arm. They will ask patients to sit with their back supported, feet flat on the floor, and arm supported at heart level. Readings consist of two numbers that are expressed in millimeters of mercury. The first number indicates the systolic blood pressure, described as the pressure of blood against the artery walls as one’s heart beats. The second number indicates diastolic blood pressure, meaning the pressure in your arteries when your heart is resting before beats. Healthy blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg, often read as “120 over 80.” Blood pressure can also be monitored at home. Ask your doctor how.
The silent killer
People should be aware that high blood pressure may not cause symptoms, which is why it is often dubbed “the silent killer.” Also, since early stages typically have no symptoms, American Heart Association, AHA, recommends that all adults age 20 plus have their blood pressure checked yearly. In some cases, varying symptoms of high blood pressure may be present to possibly include headaches, shortness of breath, and dizziness as some examples. If you discover you have high blood pressure, don’t panic. There are lifestyle changes and medications that doctors can recommend. Some examples of lifestyle changes include:
- Per MedicineNet, regular exercise strengthens the heart and makes it more efficient at pumping blood, which lowers the pressure in the arteries. Just 30 minutes a day of exercise is known to improve blood pressure in some individuals.
- Per Health, eating a “…blood pressure-friendly diet involves limiting saturated and trans fats, sodium, excess sugar, and replacing them with foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and lean protein.” Not only can these foods help reduce blood pressure, but they can help protect your heart and reduce blood sugar.
- Per Healthgrades, quality sleep is linked to physical health, mental health, and quality of life. Seven to nine hours is considered optimal sleep for most adults. “Sleep deprivation is linked to high blood pressure. Your heart rate and blood pressure go down as you enter the deep stages of sleep. This gives your vascular system a chance to rest.” Additionally, poor sleep is linked to sleep apnea and obesity, contributing factors of high blood pressure.
- Many people are unaware that stress can lead to high blood pressure. In fact, according to Mayo Clinic, stress can cause a steep rise in blood pressure and return to normal when the stress goes away. “However, short spikes in blood pressure can cause heart attacks or strokes and also may damage blood vessels, the heart, and the kidneys over time. The damage is like the damage from long-term high blood pressure.” Thus, avoiding stress triggers and partaking in stress-reducing activities for the management and reduction of stress are highly encouraged. For more information from Mayo Clinic on the connection between stress and high blood pressure, click here.
The Hidden Dangers
The CDC shares that high blood pressure is a dangerous chronic health issue affecting many adults in America. Though having chronic high blood pressure is considered serious, it’s important to pay attention to your numbers to gain control over your health. As a leading group of people with high blood pressure, senior citizens should pay particular attention to blood pressure to prevent strokes, heart attacks, kidney problems or other health issues.
Disclosure: This article is purely informational and is not intended as a medical resource. As always, consult your doctor for personal medical advice.
