Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood pushing against the walls of blood vessels. High blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension, is a dangerous condition. It causes the heart to pump blood out of the body harder, resulting in hardening of the arteries, heart failure, kidney disease, atherosclerosis, or even stroke. Therefore, it is advisable to have your high blood pressure checked out by a professional medical expert. Here, we will discuss high blood pressure, its causes, and why you should have it checked at Cary, NC, family medicine.

What causes high blood pressure?

The following are some of the common triggers that lead to the development of high blood pressure:

• Race. African American or non-Hispanic people are more likely to develop hypertension.
• High alcohol consumption. Increased alcohol intake can significantly increase your chances of developing high blood pressure.
• Obesity. Individuals living with obesity are at a higher risk of developing hypertension.
• Age. People aged above 65 years are at a greater risk of developing hypertension.
• Genes. Hypertension can also be triggered by genetic abnormalities or gene mutations inherited from your parents.
• High sodium intake. Consuming more than 1.5g of Sodium a day can increase your chances of developing high blood pressure.
• Sedentary lifestyle. Reduced levels of physical activity can lead to hypertension.
• Metabolic syndrome or diabetes. People diagnosed with either metabolic syndrome or diabetes are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure.

How is high blood pressure diagnosed?

The most common test for high blood pressure is the use of a blood pressure monitor. Here, a nurse will attach a band to a small pump and a meter around your arm. The nurse will then squeeze the pump, and you will feel it tightening around your arm. Then, the nurse will read the meter, which represents your blood pressure as a fraction, the numerator showing your peak blood pressure (systolic reading), and the numerator showing the pressure when your heart is filled with blood (diastolic reading). The normal blood pressure is 120 on top and 80 on the bottom.

How can you reduce your risk of high blood pressure?

Below are some of the essential things you can practice to help lower your risk of developing hypertension:

• Keep a healthy weight. Losing excess weight with proper physical exercise will lower your chances of developing high blood pressure.
• Eating healthy. Eating a healthy meal is essential in keeping your blood pressure regular.
• Lower salt-intake. To prevent the risk of hypertension, you should have less than 1,500 milligrams of Sodium a day in your diet.
• Remain physically active. Simple physical activities, such as walking, can help lower the risk of developing high blood pressure.

Final Thoughts

At Generation Family Practice, we provide our patients with personalized treatment solutions to help manage their hypertension symptoms. Our medical team of experts will work closely with you to create a suitable treatment plan based on your symptoms’ severity. For reliable and effective treatment solutions, visit our offices today in Cary, North Carolina, or schedule an appointment by calling 919-852-3999.