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Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood flow against the artery walls.
The Cardiovascular System |
Blood pressure measurements are read as two numbers. The higher number, called the systolic pressure, represents the pressure in the artery when the heart beats. The lower number, called the diastolic pressure, represents the pressure when the heart is at rest. Normal blood pressure is in the range of 120/80. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is defined as systolic pressure greater than 140 and/or diastolic pressure greater than 90. Blood pressure fluctuates throughout each day.
In most cases, the cause of hypertension is unknown. Genetic factors may be involved. In addition, the following conditions may cause hypertension: narrowing of the arteries, excess fluid in the blood, stronger than normal heartbeats, certain medications, or disorders of the kidneys, nervous system, or endocrine system (hormones).
The Heart |
Over time, high blood pressure can damage organs and tissues. It also increases the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, and death.
According to the American Heart Association, about 73 million Americans have high blood pressure, but it's estimated that over half of these people do not have their condition under control.
What are the risk factors for hypertension?
[What are the symptoms of hypertension?
[How is hypertension diagnosed?
[What are the treatments for hypertension?][9]
Are there screening tests for hypertension?
[How can I reduce my risk of hypertension?
References:
High blood pressure. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=2114 . Accessed June 18, 2009.
High blood pressure. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Hbp/HBP_WhatIs.html . Updated November 2008. Accessed June 18, 2009.
High blood pressure statistics. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4621 . Accessed June 18, 2009.
12/11/2009 DynaMed's Systematic Literature Surveillance http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php : He J, Gu D, Chen J, et al. Premature deaths attributable to blood pressure in China: a prospective cohort study. Lancet.2009;374(9703):1765-72.
Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood flow against the artery walls.
The Cardiovascular System |
Blood pressure measurements are read as two numbers. The higher number, called the systolic pressure, represents the pressure in the artery when the heart beats. The lower number, called the diastolic pressure, represents the pressure when the heart is at rest. Normal blood pressure is in the range of 120/80. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is defined as systolic pressure greater than 140 and/or diastolic pressure greater than 90. Blood pressure fluctuates throughout each day.
In most cases, the cause of hypertension is unknown. Genetic factors may be involved. In addition, the following conditions may cause hypertension: narrowing of the arteries, excess fluid in the blood, stronger than normal heartbeats, certain medications, or disorders of the kidneys, nervous system, or endocrine system (hormones).
The Heart |
Over time, high blood pressure can damage organs and tissues. It also increases the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, and death.
According to the American Heart Association, about 73 million Americans have high blood pressure, but it's estimated that over half of these people do not have their condition under control.
What are the risk factors for hypertension?
What are the symptoms of hypertension?
How is hypertension diagnosed?
What are the treatments for hypertension?
Are there screening tests for hypertension?
How can I reduce my risk of hypertension?
References:
High blood pressure. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=2114 . Accessed June 18, 2009.
References:
High blood pressure. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=2114 . Accessed June 18, 2009.
High blood pressure. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Hbp/HBP_WhatIs.html . Updated November 2008. Accessed June 18, 2009.
References:
High blood pressure. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=2114 . Accessed June 18, 2009.
High blood pressure. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Hbp/HBP_WhatIs.html . Updated November 2008. Accessed June 18, 2009.
A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop hypertension with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing hypertension. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your healthcare provider what you can do to reduce your risk.
Risk factors for hypertension include:
Specific Lifestyle Factors
- Alcohol use —Drinking alcohol regularly and in large amounts increases blood pressure. This means drinking more than one daily drink for women or two for men.
- High Fructose Corn Syrup Consumption- HFCS has been correlated to several metabolic syndromes, including an increased incidence of hypertension. Learn more.
- Excess dietary sodium—In susceptible people, a high salt diet may contribute to high blood pressure.
- Lack of exercise—Moderate to intense exercise, done regularly, improves heart function and promotes healthy arteries. If you’re unaccustomed to exercise, check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
- Stress—Hormones released by your body when you are under stress can increase your blood pressure. This may aggravate high blood pressure in genetically susceptible individuals.
Medical Conditions
- Obesity —Like all tissue, fatty tissue requires a rich blood supply. The heart has to work harder to deliver blood to all the body tissues in heavier people than in leaner people.
- Other conditions associated with hypertension include:
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Hormonal disorders
- Porphyria
- Toxemia of pregnancy
Certain Medications
- Oral contraceptives (birth control pills)—Taking oral contraceptives may increase your risk of hypertension in certain situations. You are more likely to develop high blood pressure while taking birth control pills if you:
- Have a family history of hypertension
- Have kidney disease
- Are overweight
- Had high blood pressure during pregnancy
- Other medications—Certain drugs can increase your risk of hypertension and/or interfere with medications you may take to lower your blood pressure. These include:
- Steroids
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Decongestants
- Diet pills
- Antidepressants
Age
People age 35 and older are at increased risk of developing hypertension, although anyone, even children, can have high blood pressure.
Gender
Men are generally at greater risk for hypertension than pre-menopausal women. After menopause , though, a woman's risk increases and is slightly greater than that of a man of the same age.
Genetic Factors
Having family members with high blood pressure increases your risk of developing the condition.
Race
Hypertension tends to develop at an earlier age and is more severe in blacks than in whites.
Hypertension usually does not cause symptoms, and this is why it may go undiagnosed if unchecked. Your organs and tissues can be damaged by high blood pressure without feeling any symptoms.
Occasionally, if blood pressure reaches extreme levels, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Headache
- Blurry or double vision
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
References:
High blood pressure. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=2114 . Accessed June 18, 2009.
High blood pressure. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Hbp/HBP_WhatIs.html . Updated November 2008. Accessed June 18, 2009.
Hypertension is often diagnosed during a visit to your doctor. Blood pressure is measured using a cuff around your arm and a device called a sphygmomanometer. Your doctor may ask you to sit quietly for five minutes before checking your blood pressure.
Placement of Blood Pressure Cuff |
If your blood pressure reading is high, you will probably be asked to come back for repeat blood pressure checks. The diagnosis of high blood pressure may be made if you have three or more readings over 140/90.
Some people’s blood pressure goes up when they are at the doctor’s office. If your doctor suspects that may be occurring, he or she may ask you to get some blood pressure readings at home. In some cases, he or she may recommend that you wear an ambulatory blood pressure monitor. This device measures your blood pressure regularly throughout the day as you go about your activities. It is usually worn for 24 hours, even while sleeping.
References:
American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org .
Facts about folic acid. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/about.html . Updated March 2009. Accessed September 2, 2009.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/ .
9/2/2009 DynaMed Systematic Literature Surveillance DynaMed's Systematic Literature Surveillance : Forman J, Stampfer M, Curhan G. Diet and lifestyle risk factors associated with incident hypertension in women. JAMA.2009;302(4):401-411.
To help reduce your risk of developing hypertension , follow these guidelines:
- If you are overweight, lose weight.
- Avoid heavy alcohol use.
- If you smoke, quit.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet.
- Exercise regularly.
- Manage stress.
- Monitor use of pain relievers.
- Consider taking folic acid.
If You Are Overweight, Lose Weight
Losing as little as 10 pounds can help decrease your heart’s workload and lower your blood pressure. Follow the dietary and exercise plans recommended by your doctor. To lose weight, consume fewer calories than you expend. To maintain a healthy weight, balance the number of calories you consume with the number you expend. Try to keep your body mass index (BMI) below 25.
Avoid Heavy Alcohol Use
Drinking too much alcohol increases blood pressure and can lead to other heart problems. Moderate alcohol intake, however, is not associated with high blood pressure. Moderate alcohol intake is two drinks or fewer per day for men and one drink or fewer per day for women. Talk to your doctor if you need help reducing your alcohol intake, or quitting drinking entirely.
If You Smoke, Quit
Smoking can increase the amount of fatty material that collects in your arteries and may contribute to elevated blood pressure readings.
Eat a Heart Healthy Diet
A diet low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol, while rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables will help lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body weight—all of which leads to a healthier heart. Follow the meal plan recommended by your doctor, or ask for a referral to a registered dietitian or clinical nutritionist. See the Heart-Healthy Diet article for more information and helpful tips.
A clinical study, called Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), has found that certain healthful eating patterns can reduce blood pressure. This is called the DASH diet. Findings from the second phase of the DASH study indicate that cutting salt intake is another effective way to lower blood pressure. See the DASH Diet article for more information and tips.
Exercise Regularly
Choose exercises you enjoy and will make a regular part of your day. Strive to maintain an exercise program that keeps you fit and at a healthful weight. For many people, this includes walking or participating in another aerobic activity for 30 minutes per day. Exercise also can help you manage stress. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Manage Stress
Although stress does not cause hypertension, hormones released by your body when you are under stress can increase your blood pressure. Take time out to relax, exercise, and practice relaxation techniques.
Monitor Use of Pain Relievers
Taking pain relievers (eg, ibuprofen ) more often than once per week has been linked to the development of high blood pressure in women. If possible, limiting the use of these medicines to once per week may be something to consider if you are at risk of high blood pressure.
Consider Taking Folic Acid
Women who take folic acid supplements daily may reduce their risk of high blood blood pressure. *¹ If you think you may not be getting enough folic acid (a B vitamin) in your diet, consider taking a daily 400 mcg supplement.
American Heart Association
Address:
7272 Greenville Avenue
Dallas, TX 75231
Phone:
1-800-AHA-USA-1 (1-800-242-8721)
Internet Address:
http://www.americanheart.org/
Description of services provided:
The American Heart Association provides general information about heart disease, including educational information, news, research, health programs, and dietary information.
American Stroke Association
Address:
7272 Greenville Avenue
Dallas, TX 75231
Phone:
1-888-4-STROKE (1-888-478-7653 )
Internet Address:
http://www.strokeassociation.org/
Description of services provided:
The American Stroke Association is a division of the American Heart Association. The website provides general information about stroke, including educational information, news, research, health programs, and dietary information.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Address:
P.O. Box 30105
Bethesda, MD 20824-0105
Phone:
301-592-8573
Internet address:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/
Description of services provided:
This division of the National Institutes of Health provides brochures and handouts, news and press releases, and information about clinical trials.
The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Screening tests are usually administered to people without current symptoms, but who may be at high risk for certain diseases or conditions.
Screening Tests
Blood Pressure Check
A blood pressure reading measures the amount of pressure in the artery when the heart is pumping (the upper number) and at rest (the lower number). This test is quick and painless. A blood pressure cuff is placed around your arm. Air is pumped into the cuff and released while a healthcare professional listens with a stethoscope. Screening for hypertension is easy and done routinely. Blood pressure checks can be done easily in your doctor’s office by a nurse, in some pharmacies, or at home if you buy a blood pressure machine.
Screening Guidelines
The American Heart Association recommends having your blood pressure checked regularly; it is typically done every time you go to your doctor's office. If your blood pressure is normal, have it checked at least every two years.
If the reading is high, your doctor will likely recheck it, as one reading showing high blood pressure does not necessarily mean that you have hypertension . If your blood pressure is near the top of the normal range, or if you have a family history of high blood pressure or other risk factors, you are at risk for hypertension. Talk to your doctor about how often your blood pressure should be checked.
References:
High blood pressure. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=2114 . Accessed June 18, 2009.
High blood pressure. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Hbp/HBP_WhatIs.html . Updated November 2008. Accessed June 18, 2009.
You have a unique medical history. Therefore, it is essential to talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors and/or experience with hypertension. By talking openly and regularly with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.
General Tips for Gathering Information
Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:
- Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
- Write out your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.
- Write down the answers you get, and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for clarification, if necessary.
- Don't be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information about what you are discussing. You have a right to know.
Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor
About Hypertension
- What is my blood pressure?
- How high is my blood pressure?
- Do I have hypertension?
- Is my blood pressure high enough to require treatment?
- Does my blood pressure increase my risk for other conditions?
About Your Risk of Developing Hypertension
- Based on my medical history, lifestyle, and family background, am I at risk for high blood pressure?
- How can I prevent high blood pressure?
About Treatment Options
- What medications are available to help me?
- What are the benefits/side effects of these medications?
- Will these medications interact with other medications, over-the-counter products, or dietary or herbal supplements I am already taking for other conditions?
- What time of day should I take my blood pressure medications?
- What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
- Are there any alternative or complementary therapies that I should consider?
About Lifestyle Changes
- Should I engage in exercise?
- What type of exercise is best?
- How much should I be exercising?
- How do I get started with an exercise program?
- Are there dietary changes I should make? How do I go about it?
- Can you refer me to a registered dietitian?
- Should I stop drinking alcohol?
- How can I find help to quit smoking?
- Do I need to lose weight? If so, how much?
- Should I check my blood pressure at home? How do I go about it?
About Your Treatment Goals
- At what level do you want to maintain my blood pressure?
- How do I know if my blood pressure is staying within healthy limits?
- How often should I have my blood pressure checked by a doctor?
