High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which the force at which blood pushes against the walls of the arteries is so great that it causes damage. A patient whose blood pressure is higher than 140/90 is considered to have hypertension, though it’s possible to be hypertensive for quite a long time before any noticeable symptoms arise. That said, without treatment, high blood pressure can raise your risk of heart attack and stroke. Regular blood pressure testing is recommended for anyone at risk of this condition. Some symptoms that may appear at an earlier stage of the disease include “dizzy spells,” nosebleeds or headaches. The main treatments for high blood pressure are lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes may include dietary modifications, regular exercise and stress reduction. In some cases, your doctor can suggest simple changes to your daily routine that may completely resolve your hypertension.