High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High Blood Pressure “The Silent Killer”

About one in four American adults suffers from high blood pressure. High Blood Pressure (HBP) is known as the “silent killer” because there are no obvious signs or symptoms. People generally do not know that they have a problem. They general find out about it through routine screening, or when an illness occurs. The reason to be concerned about High Blood Pressure is that it can damage vital organs and cause serious illness if undiagnosed or untreated.

Monitoring and checking blood pressure is important because undetected, High Blood Pressure can lead to vision loss, heart and artery disease, stroke, kidney failure, erectile dysfunction and even death. The American Health Association recommends monitoring blood pressure through healthcare professions. Regular physicals are important for monitoring blood pressure. When high blood pressure is detected, the American Heart Association recommends more frequent blood pressure monitoring and screening .

There are many home health care blood pressure monitoring devices available. The American Heart Association recommends a use of a cuff style blood pressure device that fits accurately. Blood pressure cuffs come in different sizes, and a cuff for a child is a different size than a cuff that is suited for an adult. The finger style blood pressure monitors are very convenient; however, many of the finger style monitors are less accurate.

The best way to prevent high blood pressure is to live a healthy life style. This means to; 1) exercise regularly, 2) maintain a healthy weight, 3) eat healthfully, and 4) avoid unhealthy habits like excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.

Diet and exercise are important to maintaining low blood pressure. Obesity is a major contributor to high blood pressure. Even a small weight loss or gain can greatly affect blood pressure. If living a healthy lifestyle is not enough to maintain low blood pressure, many physicians will prescribe medication.

For more information on high blood pressure, its symptoms, risks and treatments, contact your physician or a trained medical professional. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. This information should not be utilized for self-diagnosis purposes. Contact a medical expert if you have concerns, and additional questions
To read more about the most common medical conditions in America, view the 30 top medical health conditions at;  http://www.medicalhealthsupply.com. In the Shop by Medical Condition section.