Hypertension

High Blood Pressure is a common condition that affects the body arteries also called Hypertension. When there is high blood pressure, the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high. The heart has to work harder to pump blood.

Blood pressure is measured in Millimetre of mercury. In general hypertension is blood pressure reading of 130/80 mm of Hg or higher.

The American College of Cardiology and Heart Association divide blood pressure into four general categories

• Normal Blood Pressure - is 120 / 80 mm Hg or lower
• Elevated Blood Pressure - The top number ranges from 120-129 mm Hg and the bottom number is below 80mm Hg
• Stage I Hypertension - The top number ranges from 130-139 mm Hg, the bottom number is between 80-89 mm Hg
• Stage II Hypertension - The top number is 140 mm Hg, the bottom number is 90 mm Hg or higher
• Blood pressure higher than 180/120 mm Hg is considered as hypertension emergency, seek medical help immediately
• Untreated high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious health problems. It's important to have your blood pressure checked at least every two years starting at the age of 18, some people need more frequent check

Symptoms

Most people with high Blood pressure have no symptoms, even if blood pressure reading reach dangerously high level, you can have high blood pressure for years without any symptoms.

A few people with high blood pressure may have

• Headache
• Shortness of the breath
• Nose bleeds

When to consult a doctor

Blood pressure screening is an important pack of general health care. How often you should get your blood pressure checked depends on your age and overall health.

Ask your doctor for a blood pressure reading at least every two years starting at on age 18, if you are at age 40 or older or your 18 - 39 with a high risk of high blood pressure ask for Blood pressure check every year.

Healthy life style habits – such as not smoking, exercising and eating well can help prevent and treat high blood pressure; some people need medicine to treat high blood pressure.