High blood pressure has now become a very common condition amongst adults. Studies show that 46% of Americans have high blood pressure – that’s nearly half of the population. Known to be a silent killer, hypertension seldom shows any significant symptoms. But that doesn’t mean it’s harmless! It can cause damage to your arteries, and high blood pressure is also a risk factor for stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular problems.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the physical force exerted by the blood as it pushes against the walls of the arteries. It pertains to the amount of blood pumped by your heart and the amount of resistance in your arteries. A normal blood pressure reading should be less than 120/80 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury). The first number represents the systolic blood pressure and the second one represents the diastolic pressure. The systolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries as the heart contracts pushing the blood forward, while the diastolic pressure is the pressure in the arteries as the heart relaxes.
If your systolic blood pressure is between 120 and 129, with a diastolic pressure under 80, you are considered to have elevated blood pressure.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Here are some of the most common symptoms of high blood pressure that you need to watch out for!
People with uncomplicated high blood pressure may experience:
Now, the only way to keep track of your blood pressure is to visit your doctor regularly and have your blood pressure checked. You need to make time for it!CO-Op Pharmacy offers free blood pressure checks using automated kiosks that allow you to track your blood pressure history and report it to your health care professional. You are encouraged to talk with pharmacists about your blood pressure readings to also assess your risk for heart disease and provide you with valuable information to help maintain a healthy lifestyle.
