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The term, blood pressure usually refers to arterial pressure, which is the pressure in the larger arteries, veins and capillaries. The systolic arterial pressure is the peak pressure in the arteries, and this takes place near the beginning of the cardiac cycle – the diastolic arterial pressure is the lowest pressure which occurs at the resting phase of the cardiac cycle. Hypertension is when the arterial pressure is abnormally high. The healthy adult should have a pressure of 120/80.

Causes of Blood Pressure

In about 10% of people, high blood pressure is caused by a disease called secondary hypertension. When the basic cause is treated, the blood pressure usually returns to normal. These secondary causes include chronic kidney disease, a narrowing of the aorta, pregnancy, alcohol addiction and thyroid disorders. In 90% of cases, the cause of high blood pressure is not known, but certain factors like age, race, heredity and gender contribute to it.

Symptoms

You will need to consult your doctor if a routine blood pressure reading shows the systolic pressure to be higher than 140mmHg, and the diastolic pressure higher than 90mmHg. You will also need to call your doctor if you have a severe headache or sudden changes in vision, dizziness or nausea, shortness of breath or chest pain. If a family member has had a stroke or heart attack, this should be mentioned to the doctor.

Prevention

Always eat healthy and exercise regularly. Lower your salt intake and take care to read food labels before buying a product. Lose weight if you are obese. Stop smoking and use alcohol in moderation. Always take your blood pressure medication on time. Indulge in physical activity and reduce stress by staying calm.

Treatment

Along with your health provider, you will need to discuss options in treating your high blood pressure. Sometimes, blood pressure can be lowered by making lifestyle changes like weight loss, exercise and a healthy diet, but most people still need medication to maintain an even keel. Whatever be your choice, blood pressure needs to be regularly checked to make sure that the treatment is working. Uncontrolled blood pressure can lead to a heart attack or stroke or kidney failure. Do not rely only on machines at stores – also consult your physician regularly.

Treatment Centers

By attending blood pressure treatment centers, you will be aware that the goal of treatment is to reduce blood pressure so that you have a lower risk of complications. There are treatment centers that will educate you on lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and advise you of the ill effects of smoking and alcohol. By attending learning centers, you will be able to get a grasp of the disease and avail of counseling that will benefit you in the long run.

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2 Comments to “Blood pressure: Blood Pressure can be a Hazard if Neglected”

  1. Madhu | June 21st, 2008 at 4:43 am

    Well, not to get unduly stressed about trivial matters and avoiding oily things also helps to keep BP at bay….useful article.

  2. Health Point | June 23rd, 2008 at 9:52 pm

    Thanks Madhu for the wonderful suggestion for how to keep BP at bay. Sometimes these small things does play an important role in curing diseases. Such suggestions are always welcome.

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