Hypertension or high blood pressure is when the pressure in your blood vessels is more than 140/90 mmHg. The first number in the reading is the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart contracts. It is known as systolic blood pressure. The second number is the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart relaxes. It is known as diastolic blood pressure. You are considered to have hypertension if systolic is higher than 140 mmHg, diastolic is higher than 90 mmHg, or both are higher.
The exact cause of hypertension is often unknown. However, several factors can increase your risk, such as:
If your blood pressure reading on two separate days is higher than 140/90mmHg, you may have a diagnosis of hypertension. For more accurate readings, your doctor may ask you to wear a device that measures your pressure over a 24-hour period.
Treatment for mild cases incl:
Lifestyle changes may not always work. In such cases, your doctor will prescribe medications to bring your reading within the healthy range. Even if you take medicines, sticking to healthy lifestyle habits is crucial.
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