What is Hypertension?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition that will catch up with most people who live into older age.  Blood pressure is the force of blood pressing against the walls of your arteries.  When its too high, it raises the heart's workload and can cause serious damage to the arteries.  Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.

Causes

Normal blood pressure readings will fall below 120/80, while higher results over time can indicate hypertension.  In most cases, the underlying cause of hypertension is unknown.  The top number (systolic) shows the pressure when your heart beats.  The lower number (diastolic) measures pressure at rest between heartbeats, when the heart refills with blood.  Occasionally, kidney or adrenal gland disease can lead to hypertension.

Symptoms

You have high blood pressure if readings average 140/90 or higher, for either number, though you may still have no tangible symptoms.  At 180/110 and higher, you may be having a hypertensive crisis.  Rest for a few minutes and take your blood pressure again.  If it is still very high, call 911.  A hypertensive crisis can lead to a stroke, heart attack, kidney damage, or loss of consciousness.  Symptoms of hypertensive crisis can include a sever headache, anxiety, nosebleeds, and feeling short of breath.

CAHN CARES

Hypertension can be a life-long condition.  It's important to get regular blood pressure screenings and talk to your doctor about which medications will work best for you, and/or your family.  At CAHN, we have developed programs that specifically target patients and community members who are struggling with this condition.  We will help you understand more about how proper nutrition and exercise can help manage hypertension, as well as how to manage it in children and during pregnancy.

Stay tuned as we continue to roll out programs to meet the needs of the community, and hypertension is right at the top of the list!