What causes high blood pressure?
High blood pressure is a condition where the blood exerts increased pressure on the walls of your blood vessels as it's pumped through the body. The most common type of high blood pressure, primary hypertension, tends to develop gradually as we age and as a result of specific lifestyle behaviors like smoking, eating a diet high in sodium, being overweight and living a sedentary lifestyle. People with a family history of high blood pressure are also at greater risk. Secondary hypertension is blood pressure that's caused by an underlying condition like kidney disease, obstructive sleep apnea, excessive and chronic alcohol use, thyroid problems, long-term use of certain medications or congenital defects in the structure of the blood vessels.
What health risks are associated with high blood pressure?
High blood pressure has been linked with several serious issues, including heart attack, heart failure, stroke, vision loss, cognitive and memory problems and kidney damage. High blood pressure can also contribute to metabolic syndrome, a condition that affects the body's metabolism and can increase the risk for heart attack, stroke and diabetes.
How is high blood pressure managed?
Secondary high blood pressure is managed by treating the underlying condition that's causing blood pressure to rise. In primary hypertension, which is more common, lifestyle changes like eating a low-sodium, low-fat diet, being more physically active, losing weight, quitting smoking and avoiding excessive use of alcohol can help reduce blood pressure in many people. Others may need medications to help keep blood pressure within an acceptable range.
How can I tell if I have high blood pressure?
High blood pressure typically causes no symptoms before a serious event like a heart attack or stroke occurs. That's why it's very important to have regular physical exams so Dr. Papas can measure your blood pressure and evaluate your risks.
