People with an average blood pressure reading of more than 140/90 have high blood pressure. This section of the eMedTV library explains this condition in detail, including the different types, how it is diagnosed, causes, and treatment options.
While not causes of high blood pressure per se, as this eMedTV article explains, factors such as smoking or diabetes can increase a person's risk of developing this condition. Other possible causes of hypertension include gender and race.
In most cases, it takes several years for hypertension to cause noticeable symptoms. This page on the eMedTV Web site describes high blood pressure symptoms in more detail, such as nausea, dizziness, and lightheadedness.
This eMedTV page describes the process of taking blood pressure readings, including the devices used. When your blood pressure is being measured, it's important to get at least two readings -- taken at least two minutes apart -- and average the results.
This eMedTV article offers tips for how to lower blood pressure through lifestyle changes. For example, quitting smoking or losing weight can help reduce blood pressure; medications may be prescribed when lifestyle changes alone are not enough.
As this eMedTV page explains, calcium channel blockers and nervous system inhibitors are just two types of blood pressure medication available. This page provides detailed information about these and other medications used to treat hypertension.
High blood pressure can result in problems that affect the brain, kidneys, heart, and blood vessels. This eMedTV Web page describes the effects of high blood pressure on these vital organs in more detail.
This eMedTV article shows how your health can be affected by high blood pressure. For example, studies have shown that preventing hypertension reduces the chances of developing serious conditions, such as stroke.
This eMedTV selection explains how you can help prevent high blood pressure through strategies such as following a healthy diet and exercising more. This article highlights the benefits of these methods in reducing the risk of conditions like stroke.
As this eMedTV article explains, combining foods that lower blood pressure can have the same effect as blood pressure medicine. The DASH diet contains foods such as whole grains, fish, and vegetables; it calls for a reduction in salt, fat, and sugar.
This eMedTV page discusses high blood pressure and exercise, and also includes a sample walking plan. Studies on the effects of exercise show that physical activity can lower blood pressure, regardless of the type, intensity, or duration of the exercise.
If you have high blood pressure, you may be wondering if alcohol consumption is a good idea. This eMedTV article explains that while moderate drinking may be fine, alcohol can increase side effects of blood pressure medicine.
Does smoking cause high blood pressure? While smoking does not cause high blood pressure directly, as this eMedTV article explains, people who smoke are at an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
