When is blood pressure dangerously high

Last Reviewed: Nov 30, Subscribe today! Email required Email Required. Zip Code required Zip Code Required. If a person has genetic factors that increase their susceptibility to high blood pressure, and they also make lifestyle choices that increase this risk, they will likely have a greater chance of developing hypertension.

The AHA recommend that people limit their salt intake to no more than 2, milligrams mg a day and preferably reducing it to 1, mg. On average, people in the U. Avoiding the salt shaker and eating less processed and premade food are good ways to cut salt intake. Without treatment or taking measures to manage blood pressure, excessive pressure on the artery walls can lead to damage of the blood vessels, which is a form of cardiovascular disease.

It can also damage some vital organs. The risk factors for high blood pressure include the following:. Age : The risk increases with age because the blood vessels become less flexible. Family history and genetic factors : People who have close family members with hypertension are more likely to develop it. Ethnic background : African Americans have a higher risk of developing hypertension than other groups in the United States.

Obesity and being overweight : People with overweight or obesity are more likely to develop high blood pressure. Smoking : When people smoke, the blood vessels narrow, and blood pressure rises. This, too, increases blood pressure. Alcohol intake : Drinking a lot of alcohol increases the risk of blood pressure and its complications, such as heart disease.

Diet : A diet that is high in unsaturated fat and salt increases the risk of high blood pressure. Consuming unhealthful fats can contribute to a buildup of cholesterol in the arteries. Mental stress : Stress can have a severe impact on blood pressure, especially when it is chronic. It can occur as a result of both socioeconomic and psychosocial factors.

Stress : Persistent stress can lead to high blood pressure, and it may increase the risk of unhealthful choices, such as smoking. Diabetes : High blood pressure often occurs alongside type 1 diabetes. Following a treatment plan to manage diabetes can reduce the risk. Pregnancy : High blood pressure is more likely during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Hypertension is also a symptom of preeclampsia, a potentially severe placental disorder. Sleep apnea : People with sleep apnea momentarily stop breathing while they sleep.

Experts say there are links with hypertension. Many people with high blood pressure do not have symptoms. For this reason, they must have regular screening, especially those with a higher risk. The U. If this continues to show high blood pressure, the doctor will diagnose hypertension. Read the article in Spanish. A study identifies complex distinctions in genomes that help map the migrations of the Arabic people. The results may represent an important step….

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Learn more. What to know about high blood pressure. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. What is high blood pressure? It it genetic?

How much sodium per day? All adults over 40 are advised to have their blood pressure checked at least every 5 years. You can also check your blood pressure yourself with a home blood pressure monitor. Find out more about getting a blood pressure test. It's not always clear what causes high blood pressure, but there are things that can increase your risk.

Making healthy lifestyle changes can sometimes help reduce your chances of getting high blood pressure and help lower your blood pressure if it's already high. This patient decision aid PDF, kb can also help you to understand your treatment options. You can then work with your doctor to find the treatment options that work best for keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range.

But, what does it mean if your blood pressure numbers are higher than this? A blood pressure of to mm Hg systolic and under 80 mm Hg diastolic is considered elevated. Elevated blood pressure means you have a greater risk of developing high blood pressure later on.

Your doctor may suggest eating less salt, eating a heart healthy diet, or living a more active lifestyle. High blood pressure can also affect children, from infants to teenagers. Unlike adults, there are specific healthy blood pressure ranges for children based on their age, height, and gender. If your child is of average height 50th percentile for their age, the range for healthy blood pressure is as follows:.

High blood pressure can also occur during pregnancy. According to the March of Dimes , about 8 percent of people develop some form of hypertension while pregnant. But you can also check your blood pressure readings at home. Or you can use a digital blood pressure monitor with automatic cuff inflation.

Read the directions carefully when measuring your blood pressure at home, and follow the instructions that come with the product.

Also, keep in mind that certain factors may cause a temporary rise in your blood pressure. These factors include:. Also find out from your doctor what you should do if your blood pressure readings are higher than usual. Medical experts suggest the following timeline for low risk individuals:. Some health care clinics do free blood pressure screenings. You may also schedule an appointment at your local pharmacy. Untreated and uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage your blood vessels and other organs, including your heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain.