Hypertension Risk Factors

High blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension is known as the silent killer because it can cause a number of life-threatening health conditions but may remain undiagnosed until such time when the medical conditions have manifested themselves. When an individuals blood pressure is high, the heart has to work double-time to pump blood from the arteries to the entire body. If this heart-pumping activity remains unchecked over a period of time, it can lead to a heart attack or worse, heart failure. Life-Threatening Medical Conditions Apart from being at risk of having a heart attack or heart failure, someone with high blood pressure may also suddenly have a stroke, develop kidney disease or have an aneurysm. Sometimes, when one of these conditions occurs, the condition is already in its late stages because it remained undiagnosed for a long time. Sometimes too, the patient never recovers and passes on. Normal Level of Blood Pressure Generally, blood pressure that is considered to be within the normal level is a reading that is under 120/80. If a persons blood pressure is measured to be playing around 120/80 up to 139/89, this individual is already considered as pre-hypertensive. Pre-hypertensive individuals are more prone to developing hypertension if the condition is not addressed immediately. On the other hand, someone with a 140/90 blood pressure or over, is already considered as hypertensive. Risk Factors There are several factors that can lead to high blood pressure. Smoking and too much alcohol intake are two very common causes for someone to become hypertensive. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle or do not engage in regular physical activities you may also be prone to developing high blood pressure. Vitamin deficiency, particularly insufficient supply of Vitamin D; as well as deficiency in calcium levels may put you more at risk for hypertension. Lack of potassium and magnesium in the body may likewise lead to high blood pressure. Medical conditions on the other hand that may cause high blood pressure include thyroid and kidney problems as well as diabetes. If your family has a history of high blood pressure, if you are under stress almost all the time and salty foods are a regular part of your diet; you may also be at risk.

What Can You Do to Avoid Elevated Blood Pressure? High blood pressure may be avoided if you have a lifestyle change. For example, if you are lacking in activities that engage you physically, if you smoke, consumes more than two glasses of alcoholic drinks regularly and are always stressed-out; changing these habits may help you avoid developing high blood pressure. It is also important to note here that a change in diet should likewise be included in your lifestyle change. Avoiding salty foods and keeping your weight down to a healthy level may dramatically reduce the risk of your ever developing high blood pressure.