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Article Summaries
High Blood Pressure
By: Rawdha
Definition
High blood pressure is a condition with serious health
when treated early, however, it can reduce the risk of
heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
Background
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Arteries are composed of muscles and flexible, elastic •
connective tissues that stretch to accommodate the
force of blood flow generated by the heart. And the
pumping action of the heart is what allows blood to
travel through these arteries.
About blood
pressure
Blood pressure is expressed in two numbers. The top number,
systolic blood pressure, reflects the force generated by the
contractions of the heart. The bottom number, the diastolic
blood pressure, refers to the pressure of blood against the
walls of the arteries when the heart is resting between
contractions.
About Blood Pressure
(CONTINUE.)
Normal blood pressure is considered to be less than •
120/80 mm Hg. With 24-hour monitoring, daytime
normal blood pressure is defined as an average blood
pressure less than 135/85 mm Hg. Blood pressure can
change in response to exercise, stress, medication,
illness, and even the time of day.
Causes
Most adults with high blood pressure have primary .1
hypertension, previously called “essential”
hypertension. This simply means that the elevation in
blood pressure is not due to any other cause.
Secondary hypertension refers to hypertension that is
caused by another condition or medication such as
thyroid disorders or kidney disease.
.2
RISK FACTORS MODIFIABLE
Being overweight •
A sedentary lifestyle •
Tobacco use •
A high sodium or low potassium diet •
Excessive alcohol intake •
Lack of vitamin D •
Stress can also increase blood pressure temporarily and, •
over time, lead to chronic hypertension.
TREATMENT
The initial treatment for hypertension includes changes •
in lifestyle and diet to eliminate or reduce contributory
factors like obesity or a high sodium diet. Smoking
cessation and reduction of alcohol use.
References
Shackelford, K. (2016, September 21). an overview of
high blood pressure. Retrieved September 28, 2016,
from verywell: https://www.verywell.com/an-overviewof-high-blood-pressure-4069228