What is Hypertension?

If you are not familiar with the term, you may have heard it referred to as “high blood pressure.” This is not entirely accurate, however, as many people experience an occasional increase in their blood pressure due to numerous factors such as stress, dietary changes, illness, and use of some medications, whereas true hypertension is a chronic condition.

If you or someone you know has hypertension, it is essential for the condition to be evaluated, treated, and monitored by a qualified physician. When hypertension is left untreated, it can lead to numerous other serious conditions, and, at its worst, even death.

The blood pressure of an average, healthy adult is generally below 120/80. When there is the presence of contributing factors, it is not uncommon to experience an occasional, temporary rise in blood pressure. This is usually no reason to become alarmed, as your blood pressure will soon return to its normal state. If that does not occur, seeking medical assistance is recommended.

In the absence of contributing factors, or if your blood pressure does not return to and stabilize at a normal rate, prehypertension, or Stage One or Stage Two hypertension may be present. In this type of instance, whether your blood pressure is slightly above or significantly above the normal 120/80 rate, the sooner you seek competent medical assistance the more likely you will be able to get your blood pressure under control. This, in turn, will lessen your risk of more serious health complications.

If you have hypertension, this means your heart must work even harder than it should in order to do its job pumping blood. Left untreated, this can result in heart or kidney failure, permanent damage to the eyes, stroke, and serious comp...

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...will likely be quite noticeable to you. The key is if the symptom or symptoms are not within your normal range of experience, and that it is not directly related to your normal activities.

It should go without saying, but in the interest of your health perhaps it is a good idea to add, that if you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential for you to consult with a physician as soon as possible. Do not make the mistake of trying to diagnose yourself, or, even worse, to dismiss such symptoms in terms of waiting for them to pass.

Protecting your health should be your primary concern. Whether you have had any symptoms of hypertension or not, being evaluated for this condition is a simple and painless procedure. It will take no more than a few minutes of your time-- and it is well worth what you will gain in terms of your peace of mind!