High blood pressure or hypertension appears due to high pressure or tension in the arteries. The arteries are very important for people’s health as they are vessels that transfer the blood from the heart to other body organs.
There are many people who suffer from hypertension as it is a common medical condition. Even one of three adults in America suffers from high blood pressure. It is a serious medical problem and is also known as a silent killer.
Causes of Hypertension
Although this condition is quite common in adults, in most cases there is no specific cause of this problem. When the cause is unknown than we can say that it is a primary hypertension and it gradually develops and affects the person’s health.
In some people hypertension appears due to their current condition like kidney or heart problems. This condition is also known as secondary hypertension. It appears suddenly unlike the primary hypertension.
There are other conditions that can cause hypertension like thyroid problems, adrenal gland tumors and obstructive sleep apnea. Some people who abuse drugs as cocaine and amphetamines suffer from high blood pressure. Also people who were born with blood vessel defects may have problems with hypertension. Excessive alcohol intake, some medicines like cold remedies and birth control pills can cause high blood pressure as well.
Besides the fact that 90% of high blood pressure cases appear without specific cause there are several risk factors. Some of them are:
Your age: As you get older you are at higher risk of hypertension.
Your family: If anyone in your family suffers from hypertension, you could also get it.
Your diet: If you consume foods rich in salt, you could have hypertension.
Your lifestyle: If you live a sedentary lifestyle, watching TV and not doing anything, you increase your risk of developing hypertension.
Your weight: Excessive weight and obesity can lead to hypertension.
So try to maintain a healthy lifestyle if you want to avoid hypertension. Even if you already have it, more physical activity and consuming healthy foods can really help.
Source: http://www.stethnews.com
