According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) more than 65 million American adults—that’s one out of every three—have high blood pressure. With those odds, it’s not a bad idea to be aware of the causes and risks of high blood pressure, and what better time to learn than during National High Blood Pressure Education Month?
Your blood pressure is a measure of the amount of force your blood is applying against your arterial walls. When there’s too much force, the result is high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure is a life-threatening condition that can overwork your heart and harden your arterial walls.
The NHLBI advises you to aim for a blood pressure reading of less than 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is too high.
High blood pressure can lead to numerous other life-threatening conditions, including:
While anyone can be susceptible to high blood pressure, certain factors increase the risk:
If you are concerned about your blood pressure, contact your physician. For more information, visit the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute online.
H.E.A.D.s Up is a monthly column that features articles on a wide array of Health, Exercise And Diet issues. Information for these articles is provided by health and wellness professionals from throughout the A&M System. If you have questions or story ideas for this column, email Ruth McMullan.