Hypertension is a common cardiovascular condition that affects approximately 45% of adults in the United States. It is a significant risk factor for many heart problems, so if you have a family history of high blood pressure, or your primary care provider has mentioned it recently, you may have a few questions. The guide below addresses some common concerns about the condition.

What You Need to Know About Hypertension

What is hypertension?

Often referred to as high blood pressure, the condition occurs when the heart pushes blood through the arteries with too much force. Your heart needs to pump nutrients throughout your body via the bloodstream, but excessive pressure is bad for your health. Unnecessary stress can strain the arteries and the heart.

What causes it?

This condition has many causes, and for some people, it may be a combination of risk factors. Common culprits include diets high in sodium, lack of physical activity, old age, and genetics. For this reason, it is a frequent problem in affluent countries like the United States, where individuals are more likely to overindulge in unhealthy foods.

How is blood pressure measured?

Anyone who has been to a doctor has likely heard two numbers that describe blood pressure: systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure, the top number, measures the force of blood against the arterial walls when your heart beats. Diastolic blood pressure, the bottom number, represents the pressure between heartbeats.

Both are measured in millimeters of mercury. For example, a normal measurement of 120 mmHg systolic and 80 mmHg diastolic would be read as 120/80 mmHg, or “120 over 80.”

Why is hypertension harmful?

Having high blood pressure puts you at a greater risk for heart attacks, heart disease, and stroke. In most cases, it does not cause any symptoms, so it is typically detected during routine health checkups. Extremely high blood pressure can sometimes result in chest pain, difficulty breathing, and low tolerance for exercise.

How can I prevent it?

The optimal way to reduce your risk of developing hypertension is by adjusting your lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet and limit your sodium intake. Adults should get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week. Avoid smoking and drinking too much alcohol, which can raise your blood pressure. A healthy, active lifestyle is an excellent preventative measure for hypertension.

Whether you are at risk for high blood pressure or need a routine checkup, the dependable healthcare professionals at Delhi Internal Medicine are here to help. This family-run doctor’s office specializes in a wide range of services, including prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of everything from hypertension and high cholesterol to depression and respiratory disease. Your health is a top priority, so they offer 24-hour helpline and email services to ensure you get the care you need. Visit their website to learn more about the practice, and call (513) 347-3302 to ask about appointments.