Hypertension has been labeled the “silent killer” because the symptoms can not be readily detected or often ignored. Although there are a number of causes that can contribute to hypertension, the particular cause may not be known to the individual.  Hypertension untreated can lead to stroke or heart attack. 

Three measures can indicate hypertension: pulse, systolic pressure, and diastolic pressure.  The pulse rate indicates how fast the heart is beating to pump the blood through the body.  The systolic pressure indicates how much pressure is exerted to pump the blood into the heart. The diastolic pressure measures how much pressure the heart generates to pump the blood through the body.

An acceptable pulse rate at rest is about 72 beats per minute.  As we exercise the pulse rate will increase to provide oxygen to the body.  A systolic pressure of about 120 is acceptable or even if it goes a bit higher, but the most important number is the diastolic pressure which should be about 80.  The higher the diastolic number the greater stress on the heart and blood vessels.  When this number approaches 90, it is considered a stage one level of hypertension, a level that should be closely monitored and medication may be indicated.  When the diastolic number reaches 120, this is considered a stage two level and indicates a high risk level for stroke and heart attack.

Here are some commonly-agreed factors that can contribute to HTN. Genetics may also play an important role in hypertension.

Smoking is probably the number one contributor since it elevates blood pressure.

Obesity or being overweight is also a common cause.  HDL and LDL cholesterol is often elevated in overweight people causing additional stress on the heart and circulatory system.

Diabetes and chronic kidney disease has been associated with hypertension due to an unregulated diet and life style. Diabetes Type II is one of the fastest growing health diseases in the USA.

High levels of salt intake.

Adrenal and thyroid problems or tumors.

Insufficient calcium, potassium, magnesium that are important for heart health and Vitamin D consumption. 

Frequent high levels of alcohol consumption.

Lack of physical activity can be linked to obesity and being overweight possible causing hypertension.

Stress elevates pressure in the vessels and the heart that pumps the blood contributing to HTN.

The aging process of cholesterol and plaque accumulating in the arteries.

Certain birth control medications.

Over one-third of people are not aware that they have high blood pressure.  For this reason, it is advisable to undergo periodic blood pressure screenings even when no symptoms are present.  Statistics in the USA indicate that African Americans have a higher incidence of hypertension than other ethnic groups.

How to keep hypertension in check.

In addition to noting and curbing any of the above factors, taking some responsibility for your own condition is important.   Unless you work in a healthcare facility like me, access to a blood pressure monitor for daily measures may not be practical.  If you know a healthcare professional who is qualified to measure blood pressure who is willing to take and note your blood pressure reading, this is a valuable record to present at your next wellness doctor visit.Better yet, measure your blood pressure yourself.  A basic monitor set can include a stethoscope, pressure cuff, and air pump.  This is easily measured with
help from a friend or loved one but you can do this yourself.   An easier and just as effective way is to purchase a basic battery-operated model that will inflate the pressure cuff automatically and then deflate showing a reading for pulse, systolic, and diastolic numbers.  Make a note in a booklet that should be included in the monitor set or a paper that can be kept with your blood pressure monitor.

Tips for Blood Pressure Monitoring

This is a portion of an article that was on my website a few months ago.  The same principles still apply.