High Blood Pressure / Hypertension

What Is High Blood Pressure / Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure (HBP), is a common disease in which blood flows through blood vessels (specifically arteries) at higher than normal pressures. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the artery walls as the heart pumps blood. High blood pressure, sometimes called arterial hypertension, happens when this force is too high. This happens when the arteries are not as elastic as they should be because of scarring or the build-up of cholesterol and plaque. This causes the heart to pump harder to get blood into the arteries. Over time, this increased effort can result in damage to the heart itself, particularly in the heart’s muscles and valves.

Approximately 67 million Americans—or 31% of the American population has high blood pressure. It can occur at any age, though it is more common in older age. In the United States, an estimated 65% of men and 70% of women over the age of 60 suffer from high blood pressure.

Most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms; in fact, you can have high blood pressure for years and not know it. For this reason, it’s often referred to as a “silent killer.” The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it checked regularly, which is why blood pressure is always taken at check ups. Everyone, from kids to adults, should have their blood pressure checked regularly.

 

What Causes High Blood Pressure / Hypertension

Risk Factors For High Blood Pressure / Hypertension

Diagnosing High Blood Pressure / Hypertension

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure / Hypertension

Prognosis

Living With High Blood Pressure / Hypertension

Screening

Prevention

Common Treatment

Complementary and Alternative Treatment

Care Guide

When To Contact A Doctor

Questions For Your Doctor

Questions For A Doctor

Resources