Hypertension
Hypertension and high blood pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) affects over 70 million Americans. Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the artery. It is measured by two numbers: the first or top number is called the systolic pressure, when the heart contracts. The second or bottom number is the diastolic pressure, when the heart rests between beats.
High blood pressure is called the "silent killer" because it usually has no noticeable warning signs or symptoms until serious problems arise. Having high blood pressure increases an individual’s chances for developing heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Diet (fat, salt, caffeine), genetics (family history), weight (obesity), and stress are some of the factors that can contribute to high blood pressure.
Normal blood pressure is a systolic blood pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure of less than 80 mmHg. Prehypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 120–139 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure of 80–89 mmHg. Persons with prehypertension are at increased risk to progress to hypertension.
High blood pressure for adults is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher.
