One in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure – a potentially life-threatening condition that has almost no symptoms. (Blood pressure of 140/90 or higher is considered high.)
But you might not know if your blood pressure is normal, at risk, or dangerously high. That wouldn't be surprising since most people aren't aware of their blood pressure numbers.
What are the Risks?
- One in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure (HBP).
- More than 270,000 Americans die each year for conditions related to HBP.
- It is estimated that 72,000,000 Americans have HBP.
- Only about 60 percent of those with HBP are being treated, and nearly one third aren't aware they have a problem.
- HBP can damage your vision when the blood supply to the eyes is reduced (ischemia).
- HBP leads to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) and an increased risk of heart disease.
- HBP can cause the heart to enlarge and lead to congestive heart failure.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
There are a number of known causes of HBP, but in many cases there is no obvious reason. Even though the causes are not yet known, HBP can be lowered and managed in most cases.
- Some people are sodium sensitive. That means that even small amounts of sodium or salt can cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure. The Institute of Medicine recommends that everyone limit sodium intake to no more than 1,500 milligrams a day. That is about 2/3 teaspoon of table salt. Read labels. Salt/sodium is present in most foods, and is particularly abundant in refined and packaged foods.
- Excess fat in the body leads to increased blood pressure. As people gain weight, their blood pressure tends to rise.
- A sedentary lifestyle is associated with increases in blood pressure. Lack of physical activity is one of the most common factors in increased blood pressure. Long-term increases in blood pressure cause damage to arteries and the heart.
- Emotional stress is associated with increases in blood pressure. For many people, more stress translates into higher blood pressure.
- Excessive alcohol intake and smoking are well-known causes of increased blood pressure.
What Can You Do?
If you are at risk, read the Ten Commandments for the Patient with High Blood Pressure by the American Heart Association:
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1. |
Know your blood pressure. Have it checked regularly. Many people have an inexpensive blood pressure monitoring device at home, and can check their own blood pressure regularly. |
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Know what your weight should be. Keep it at that level or below. Even small reductions in weight can result in reduced blood pressure. |
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Don't use excessive salt in cooking or at meals; avoid salty food. Your tastes will adjust to reduced salt and sodium over a period of time. |
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Eat a low-fat diet (according to AHA recommendations). Read labels, remove visible fat from meat, and plan healthy menus ahead of time. |
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Don't smoke cigarettes or use tobacco products. Each cigarette you smoke increases your blood pressure. There are no benefits, and many risks, related to smoking. |
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Take your medicine exactly as prescribed; don't run out of pills even for a single day. Never reduce or increase your dosage without consulting with your doctor. |
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Keep your appointments with the doctor. Good medical care is essential to a long, healthy life. |
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Follow your doctor's advice about exercise. Find activities you like, and be active every day. |
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Live a normal life in every other way. |
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Make certain your parents, brothers, sisters, and children have their blood pressure checked regularly. HBP tends to run in families. |
The Bottom Line
Everyone should be concerned about high blood pressure. Following the AHA guidelines and the specific recommendations made by your doctor can help you live a normal, happy, and productive life. HBP can be lowered and controlled. In most cases, the healthy choices are up to you. |
