High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a health-threatening condition. Remember that you may not feel sick because of high blood pressure, but in fact, this disorder should be taken seriously.
Blood pressure is important for blood circulation, the transport of oxygen and nutrients that the body needs. It is the force that moves blood through our arteries throughout the body to keep the organs working.
High blood pressure occurs when the arterioles narrow, forcing the heart to pump more blood. The consequences of hypertension can range from heart failure, and stroke to heart attacks.
If doctors cannot determine the cause, the risk of a heart attack or stroke increases by 60%.
High blood pressure is a silent killer
It has no symptoms, which explains why it often goes unnoticed. We usually start to notice it only when it is already a serious health disease.
31% of the world’s population has high blood pressure. It is important to avoid a sedentary lifestyle and watch your eating habits.
5 causes why you may have high blood pressure
Each case of hypertension is unique. However, there are known risk factors that can lead to this disorder. They are mostly related to your daily habits.
1. Excess weight
Losing weight lowers blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
2. Unhealthy lifestyle
Alcohol abuse, smoking, excess salt, and lack of physical activity are all risk factors for high blood pressure.
The deep entrenchment of a sedentary lifestyle in the life of our culture plays an important role in the increase in cases of hypertension in adults and young people:
- Try to exercise every day. You can start with 30 minutes of daily walks and add more cardio to your workouts.
- Follow a balanced diet. By choosing fruits and vegetables, lean foods, and whole grains, you can make a positive impact on your health.
- Keep stress and emotions under control. Clinical studies have shown that anger, hostility, stress, and other strong emotions and feelings contribute to high blood pressure.
3. Clinical reasons
It may also be associated with chronic kidney disease, thyroid problems, diabetes, and sleep apnea.
Some studies have shown that 10% of patients suffer from secondary hypertension. In other words, high blood pressure may be the result of other clinical diseases.
4. Medications
Certain medications that treat asthma, as well as hormones, including contraceptives, can increase blood pressure. This list also includes several nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants, and pain relievers.
These medications can affect blood pressure because they change the sodium and fluid balance in the body. As a result, blood vessels contract, which leads to hypertension.
5. Age
As we age, blood vessels weaken, losing their elasticity.
Arteries change and harden over time, forcing the heart to work harder. Like any other overworked muscle, the heart expands in size to handle the extra load. As the heart enlarges, it needs more blood and oxygen. However, it is not always able to support the needs of blood circulation.
For this reason, it is very important to follow your daily habits if you want to be healthy for many years:
Avoid semi-finished products and excessive salt intake.
Drink less alcohol and try to limit smoking more and more each day.
By improving your lifestyle and taking medications prescribed by your doctor, you can control high blood pressure and reduce its side effects.
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