USF-COM
Department
of Family Medicine
Patient Education Information on...
Index of
Patient Education Topics
What causes high blood pressure?
In 90–95 percent of the cases of high blood pressure, the cause is
unknown. This type of high blood pressure is called essential hypertension
. In the remaining cases, high blood pressure is a symptom of a recognizable
underlying problem such as a kidney abnormality or birth defect of the
heart. When the cause is corrected, blood pressure usually returns to normal.
This type of high blood pressure is called secondary hypertension
Return
to top of page
Why is harmful?
Elevated blood pressure indicates that the heart is working harder than
normal, putting both the heart and the arteries under a greater strain.
If high blood pressure isn't treated, the heart may eventually not be able
to pump enough blood and oxygen to the body's organs and tissues to meet
their needs. This may contribute to heart attacks, strokes (brain
attacks), kidney failure, and damage to the eyes.
Return
to top of page
Who gets high blood pressure?
High blood pressure affects an estimated 50 million Americans. It
can occur in children or adults, but is more common in people with a family
history of hypertension, African-Americans, middle-aged and elderly people,
obese people, heavy drinkers and women who are taking oral contraceptives.
Individuals with Diabetes, gout or kidney disease also have a higher risk
of hypertension.
Return
to top of page
How can I tell if I have high blood pressure?
Although there are no specific signs or symptoms associated with high blood
pressure, some people describe symptoms of headache, vision problems, dizziness,
or light headedness. Many people have high blood pressure for years without
knowing it. Often, the only way to find out if you have high blood
pressure is to have your blood pressure checked. Your doctor or other qualified
health professional should check your blood pressure at least once every
two years. A single elevated blood pressure reading doesn’t
mean you have high blood pressure, but it’s a sign that further observation
is required. Ask your doctor how often you should check it or have it checked.
Return
to top of page
What can be done to lower high blood pressure?
Most Americans consume far more salt (sodium) than their bodies need. Heavy
sodium consumption increases blood pressure in some people. Reducing
sodium (or salt) consumption may help lower blood pressure. Your doctor
may recommend a sodium (salt) restricted diet. This means you will have
to avoid salty foods and cut down on the amount of salt you use in cooking
and at the table.
Statistics show that many people who have high blood pressure are also
overweight. If you are overweight or have gained weight over time, you'll
be advised to cut down on calories and lose weight. Your doctor
can prescribe a diet that’s right for you. Often when people lose
weight, their blood pressure drops as well.
Physical inactivity is a risk factor for heart disease. In addition,
an inactive lifestyle tends to contribute to obesity, a risk factor for
both high blood pressure and heart disease Regular exercise
helps control weight and lower blood pressure. Don't be afraid to be active.
Exercise should be part of your daily life. Besides helping to reduce your
risk of heart attack, it can also help you lose and maintain a healthy
weight.
More than two alcoholic drinks per day can cause high blood pressure
in some people. In addition, alcohol is a source of extra unwanted
calories. By cutting down on your alcoholic intake you may
decrease your blood pressure as well as your weight.
Return
to top of page
How does medicine help control
high blood pressure?
For some people, weight loss, sodium reduction and
other lifestyle changes won't lower high blood pressure as much as it needs
to be lowered. If that's your situation, you will probably need to
take medication. Many medications are available to reduce high blood pressure.
-
Some get rid of excess fluid and sodium (salt).
-
Others relax constricted blood vessels.
-
Others prevent blood vessels from constricting and
narrowing.
Because there is usually no cure for high blood pressure,
treatment generally must be carried out for life. If treatment is stopped,
the pressure may rise again.
Return
to top of page
What are the side effects of blood pressure
medications?
Some people experience swelling in their feet and ankles, cough, headaches,
increased tiredness, constipation, dizziness when standing up quickly,
and/or changes in sexual desire or performance. These conditions
may or may not be caused by the high blood pressure medications.
If you experience any of these problems while taking blood pressure medications,
call your doctor.
Return
to top of page
Web Sites for more information on high blood
pressure