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High blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension, represents the pressure of the blood against the walls of your arteries and can result from two internal forces. The first one is created by the heart as it pumps blood through the circulatory system into the arteries. The second is the force of the arteries as they resist the blood flow.
According to the National Heart, Blood, and Lung Institute, 1 in 3 adults in the United States have High Blood Pressure (HBP). HBP itself usually has no symptoms. You can have it for years without knowing it.
During this time, though, it can damage the:
Heart
Blood vessels
Kidneys
Other parts of your body
There are many factors that can have an impact on one’s blood pressure such as:
Age
Genetics
Being Overweight
General Health
Emotional State
Activity Level
High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” since more often than not, there are no associated symptoms. Therefore, it is essential that you check your blood pressure periodically before symptoms arise. Fortunately, this condition is easy to detect if you are having regular check ups. If you do not go to the doctor regularly, then you can find blood pressure machines at most pharmacies and drug stores.
Blood Pressure Readings
It’s important to be aware of your blood pressure numbers. If they are too high for a prolonged period of time you may be headed for further complications, such as a stroke or a variety of other health problems. Low blood pressure may indicate other medical conditions and should be evaluated. As you may know, there are two sets of numbers that represent your blood pressure.
The systolic pressure is always mentioned first, then the diastolic. The reading is then expressed as “120 over 80”, for example.
Systolic – The higher (top) number that represents the pressure while the heart contracts to pump blood to the body.
Diastolic – The lower (bottom) number representing the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.
In general, more attention is given to the top number (the systolic blood pressure) as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease for people over 50 years old. In the majority of people, systolic blood pressure rises steadily with age due to increasing stiffness of large arteries, and long-term buildup of plaque in addition to cardio and vascular disease.
Whether taking blood pressure on your own or by your doctor, be sure to keep a record of the numbers each time. If needed ask your doctor to explain the results. You can also ask your doctor what an ideal blood pressure should be at for you personally.
Reducing High Blood Pressure Naturally
Cardiovascular health (and the reduction of high blood pressure) can be supported in a number of ways.
Reducing salt intake
Increasing daily activity levels to increase circulation
Begin a weight management program if excess weight is a contributing factor
Reducing stress levels
Furthermore, if this condition is caused by excess fibrin (protein buildup) in the kidneys, hardening of the arteries (due to plaque), or vascular inflammation, then a systemic enzyme therapy can be used to help remove the excess fibrin, arterial plaque, and inflammation.
