1.4.15
Personal Habits may be the Premier Cause of Hypertension
5:19 PM
Many millions of people of all ages, but especially those older than 45 years of age, suffer from the symptoms of hypertension and high blood pressure. All around the world and specifically here in American we are seeing a spike in cases of hypertension. The cause of hypertension and high blood pressure cannot be traced to just one thing or one bad habit. A combination of bad personal habits however can be linked to the rapid increase in these types of cases nationwide.
High blood pressure or hypertension is a chronic medical condition. The shortened words for hypertension are HT, HTN or HPN. Systematic arterial hypertension is what is usually referred to when hypertension is referred to, and can be either essential or primary, or secondary. When there is no cause of hypertension discernible it is referred to as primary or essential hypertension. Most hypertension cases fall under this category (over 95%). When you have secondary hypertension it means that there is a cause of hypertension such as kidney disease or certain forms of tumors.
If hypertension is not treated it can lead to strokes, heart disease, heart attacks, heart failures or aneurysms. Life expectancy is routinely shortened by even moderate levels of high blood pressure and must be treated.
The leading cause of hypertension in the U.S. is smoking. Chronic or long term smokers are some of the most common victims of high blood pressure. Chronic drug use such as cocaine or amphetamine use can lead to high blood pressure as well. Obese people are in the high risk group to develop high blood pressure and those that have a diet which consists of food high in saturated fats have a high probability of developing hypertension.
Failure to exercise regularly at least three times a week for at least thirty minutes is also a leading cause of hypertension in adults and adults over 50. Some of the most at risk people are African Americans or those with Diabetes.
There are some diseases that can become the cause of hypertension and these include arteriosclerosis, sleep apnea, hyperthyroidism, and over 200 other diseases and causes.
Over consumption of alcohol, salt, and cigarette smoking can also be the cause of hypertension, as can a non-nutritional diet.
Our hectic lifestyles can also be the cause of hypertension. Worrying and stress over finances or relationships can raise blood pressure levels dangerously.
Whatever the cause of hypertension, we must alter our lifestyles to combat the lethal consequences of the disease which attacks so many Americans daily. People need to watch their salt intake, quit smoking, start eating more fruits and vegetables, and do some hard exercise at least three or four days a week on a consistent basis. By becoming healthier and fitter not only will we look better but we can reduce or eliminate hypertension from our lives. We will live longer, happier, healthier lives by just taking care of ourselves better.