Blood pressure is measured by two numbers, systolic and diastolic, which indicate the force of blood against artery walls. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg, while high blood pressure or hypertension is above 140/90 mmHg. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and stroke and can damage vital organs, but often presents no symptoms, so regular monitoring is important. Lifestyle changes like exercise, diet, weight control and stress management can help prevent and manage high blood pressure, and medication may be needed in some cases to control it.

1. Understanding Blood Pressure: Numbers, Risks, and
Prevention.
Introduction:
Blood pressure is a fundamental indicator of your cardiovascular
health. It reflects the force of blood against your artery walls, and it
fluctuates naturally throughout the day. In this comprehensive guide,
we'll delve into the significance of blood pressure numbers, explore
the risks associated with high blood pressure (hypertension), and
discuss effective prevention and management strategies.
What Do Blood Pressure Numbers Mean?
Blood pressure is represented by two numbers: systolic and diastolic.
Systolic blood pressure measures the force on artery walls when your
heart beats, while diastolic blood pressure gauges the pressure when
your heart rests between beats. For instance, a measurement of 120
systolic and 80 diastolic is expressed as "120 over 80" or "120/80
mmHg."
Normal Blood Pressure Numbers:
A normal blood pressure level falls below 120/80 mmHg, regardless
of your age. The good news is that you can take daily steps to
maintain healthy blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of
cardiovascular issues.
What Is High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when your
blood pressure consistently exceeds normal levels. While blood
pressure naturally varies based on your activities, sustained elevation
can lead to hypertension. Higher blood pressure levels increase your

2. vulnerability to conditions like heart disease, heart attacks, and
strokes.
Diagnosing High Blood Pressure:
Healthcare professionals may use different criteria to diagnose
hypertension. Some follow the 140/90 mm Hg guideline established in
2003, while others adopt the 130/80 mm Hg guideline from 2017. To
determine if you have high blood pressure, your healthcare team
reviews your systolic and diastolic levels in comparison to these
guidelines.
Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Pressure:
Unlike many health conditions, hypertension typically presents no
warning signs or symptoms. Regular blood pressure monitoring is the
sole method for detection.
Causes of High Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure often develops gradually due to lifestyle choices,
such as physical inactivity. Health conditions like diabetes and obesity
can elevate the risk. Additionally, pregnancy can trigger temporary
high blood pressure.
Health Implications of High Blood Pressure:
Uncontrolled hypertension can harm vital organs like the heart, brain,
kidneys, and eyes. It reduces arterial elasticity, leading to decreased
blood and oxygen flow to the heart and potential heart disease. High
blood pressure can also cause chest pain, heart attacks, and heart
failure. In the brain, it can result in stroke, with serious consequences
for speech, movement, and overall function. Furthermore, high blood
pressure in midlife is linked to cognitive decline and dementia.

3. Diagnosing High Blood Pressure:
Regular blood pressure measurements by a healthcare professional are
the primary means of determining whether you have high blood
pressure. It's often referred to as the "silent killer" due to its
symptomless nature.
Preventing and Managing High Blood Pressure:
Many individuals can maintain healthy blood pressure through
lifestyle changes, including:
 Engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly
(about 30 minutes per day, 5 days a week)
 Abstaining from smoking
 Adopting a nutritious diet with limited sodium (salt) and alcohol
consumption
 Maintaining a healthy weight
 Managing stress
Conclusion :
In addition to these lifestyle adjustments, some individuals may
require medication to control their blood pressure. Consult your
healthcare team if you suspect you have high blood pressure or if
you've been diagnosed but haven't achieved control. Taking action to
lower your blood pressure significantly reduces your risk of heart
disease and stroke, collectively known as cardiovascular disease