


- When the systolic pressure is greater than 140 and the diastolic pressure is greater than 90, it is widely
considered that the patient has High blood pressure or Hypertension.
- Consistent hypertension increases the risk of heart disease, kidney failure, blindness and strokes.
- High blood pressure is more common in older adults than children, and more prevalent among African
Americans.
- Recently the American Heart Association has lowered the normal levels to less than 120/80.
- High blood pressure can be controlled by medication, less sodium (salt), lowering the fat intake in your diet,
physical exercise, losing weight, eliminating stress and lowering alcoholic intake. Your doctor can determine
whether medicine or dietary and lifestyle changes are the best steps in controlling your blood pressure.
- High blood pressure is the number factor in causing strokes.
- 1/3 of U.S. adults have high blood pressure.
- 4 out of 10 African Americans have high blood pressure.
- Second leading cause of kidney failure next to diabetes.
- Blood pressure that is below normal readings is called hypotension.
- Low blood pressure can decrease the amount of blood to the brain resulting in lightheadedness, dizziness,
weakness and or fainting.
- Low blood pressure can be a sign of a severe cardio disease.
- Most high blood pressure can not be cured completely, but most of the time it can be controlled.
BLOOD PRESSURE FACTS
Copyright 2008 ::Blood Pressure Facts
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Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Many people think they know the symptoms of high blood pressure or hypertension. They talk to friends and
relatives who tell them that they will get a lot of headaches or have dizzy spells. People also get inaccurate
information when reading articles in magazines, on the internet, or they read between the lines and misinterpret the
information.
Unfortunately, many times there are no symptoms for high blood pressure or hypertension. You can live for years
without realizing that you have this disease — and that is why it is commonly referred to as the “silent killer.” So, take
all of the advice given to you by others and ignore it. Go and talk to the most important and knowledgeable person
available, your doctor.
This “silent killer” does not have to be the major public health concern that it is today. A doctor can help monitor and,
if necessary, treat your high blood pressure. The first step in maintaining your health is with yearly physical
examinations that include monitoring of your blood pressure. Your doctor should also have information about the
medical history of your family as high blood pressure can be hereditary.
High blood pressure is extremely dangerous and can lead to heart attacks and strokes if left untreated. If you know
your blood pressure is too high, you can do something about it. Once you are diagnosed with high blood pressure,
you need to establish a routine with your doctor.
Visit your doctor regularly, watch your diet and take your medication. By following these steps, you can live a long
healthy life if you just take care of yourself.
- The definition of blood pressure is the measure of the pressure as the blood passes through the
blood vessels. The systolic pressure is the maximum amount of pressure in the arteries when the
heart beats. The diastolic pressure is the lowest amount of pressure when the heart is at rest.