Hypertension
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Hypertension is the diagnosis for someone who has chronically elevated blood pressure. This can be caused by a number of factors, most of which can be modified by lifestyle changes. Uncontrolled hypertension, on the other hand, can lead to catastrophic and debilitating outcomes, up to and including death.
Blood pressure is a measurement of the amount of pressure placed upon the arteries as the heart pumps blood through the body. The first, or upper number (systolic), represents the amount of pressure on the vessels when the heart contracts (squeezes/pumps). The second, or bottom number (diastolic), signifies the amount of pressure on the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats.
Our blood vessels become less pliable and elastic with age, as well as from the build-up of plaque in the arteries (primarily from a combination of hereditary factors and lifestyle choices). This compromise of our arteries puts us at greater risk for heart attack and stroke.
Variations in blood pressure readings are important in the diagnosis of several health conditions, most particularly hypertension â the chronic elevation of the BP itself. Hypertension increases the risk of heart disease, kidney disease,
and potential for stroke. A normal blood pressure is one that is between the highest and lowest levels determined to be optimal, or best, for one's age.
BP categories based on the average of two or more in-office blood pressure readings:
Treatment of high blood pressure should include dietary modifications (daily sodium <2300 mg/day), limited alcohol intake, increased physical activity (aka: exercise), weight loss if overweight, regular BP monitoring, and possibly medication. All these lifestyle changes will need to be closely coordinated with your healthcare team for the best results
