Hypertension
Hypertension can be described as persistently high blood pressure. Adults with a systolic pressure equal to or greater than 140 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure equal to or greater than 90 mm Hg are considered to be high according to the Michigan Department of Community Health (adapted from JNC 7, 2003).
It is best to have a series of blood pressure readings to confirm a diagnosis of hypertension which would be determined by your physician.
Approximately one in four Americans has high blood pressure. Men over 35 and women over 45 years of age are generally affected by the disease, but it is not limited to this age group. Between 2% and 6% of teenagers have persistent blood pressure elevation. Prevalence rates for prepubertal children have been reported to be as high as 1%.
Probable contributing factors to hypertension:
- Age
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Heredity
- Aggressive, hyperactive personality
You may be hypertensive and may or may not exhibit any of the usual symptoms associated with this disease. The symptoms normally associated with hypertension include the following:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Palpitations
- Tachycardia
- Nosebleed
If you are having any of the above symptoms this should be brought to the attention of your physician.
Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to heart disease, stroke or renal disease.
Beneficial methods to help reduce your blood pressure include:
- Weight loss
- Limit sodium intake
- Stop smoking
- Limit intake of fat
- Reduce stress and promote relaxation
Source: Encyclopedia & Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing, & Allied Health - seventh edition
