What is Hypertension or High Blood Pressure?
Hypertension, also known as high or raised blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood vessels have persistently raised pressure. Blood is carried from the heart to all parts of the body in the vessels. Each time the heartbeats, it pumps blood into the vessels. Blood pressure is created by the force of blood pushing against the walls of blood vessels (arteries) as it is pumped by the heart. The higher the pressure the harder the heart has to pump.
Acute causes of high blood pressure include stress, but it can happen on its own, or it can result from an underlying condition, such as kidney disease. Unmanaged hypertension can lead to a heart attack, stroke, and other problems.
What are the risk factors of High Blood Pressure?
The common risk factors for hypertension include the following:
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Obesity
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Drinking too much alcohol
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Smoking
- Family history
Lifestyle factors are the best way to address high blood pressure. Beta-blockers are a common treatment for hypertension.