Understanding High Blood Pressure: What You Need to Know

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common but serious health issue that can silently harm your body for years before symptoms appear. Recognizing the risk factors, causes, and potential complications can help you take proactive steps toward better

What Is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. Over time, this pressure can lead to health problems, especially heart disease. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:

Systolic pressure (top number) — the pressure when your heart beats.
Diastolic pressure (bottom number) — the pressure when your heart is at rest between beats.

A normal reading is generally considered to be below 120/80 mm Hg. Anything higher could indicate elevated or high blood pressure.

Why Hypertension Matters

Although it often has no obvious symptoms, high blood pressure can lead to severe complications, such as:

Heart attack or stroke
Aneurysm
Heart failure
Kidney damage
Vision loss
Cognitive decline

Because of these risks, high blood pressure is often called the “silent killer.”

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of hypertension:
Genetics and family history
Age – risk increases as you get older
Obesity or being overweight
Sedentary lifestyle
Poor diet, especially one high in salt
Excessive alcohol consumption
Tobacco use
Chronic stress

Secondary hypertension can result from underlying conditions such as kidney disease, thyroid problems, or sleep apnea.

Preventing and Managing High Blood Pressure

The good news is that high blood pressure is both preventable and manageable. You can reduce your risk and improve your overall health by:

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains
Reducing salt intake
Exercising regularly — aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
Limiting alcohol
Quitting smoking
Managing stress with mindfulness, breathing exercises, or counseling
Monitoring your blood pressure at home

In some cases, medication may be necessary, so it’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider.

When to See a Doctor

Because high blood pressure often goes unnoticed, routine checks are essential—especially if you're over 40 or have risk factors. A healthcare provider can help you monitor your readings and determine whether lifestyle changes or medication are needed.

Get Checked Today

If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or just want a check-up, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Wylie Walk In Urgent Care to get a personalized evaluation and recommendations tailored to your health.

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