There are usually two reading while measuring
blood pressure. The higher number is called the systolic pressure.
The lower number is called the diastolic pressure. Normal blood
pressure is in the range of 120 / 80. High blood pressure is defined
as systolic pressure greater than 140 and / or diastolic pressure
greater than 90.
High blood pressure leads to stress on the heart, lungs, brain,
kidneys, and blood vessels. It can also damage these organs and
tissues. The cause of Hypertension is still unknown.
Risk Factors leading to high blood pressure are:
• Sex: males or post menopausal females
• Taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills)
• Age: middle-aged and older
• Being overweight
• Heavy drinking
• Smoking
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Diabetes
• Eating a high-fat, high-salt diet
• Emotional stress
• Race: African American |