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Hypertension (blood pressure) is the pressure exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries. Arteries are the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body organs. Blood Pressure is read in two fractional numbers: the numerator (top) number occurs when the heart beats or contracts, and it is called systolic pressure. The denominator (bottom) number happens between beats when the heart rests or relaxes, and it is called diastolic pressure. Thus, the more blood exerts against the walls of the arteries, the higher the pressure would be.

Blood pressure is measured with inflatable arm cuff and pressure-measuring blood gauge in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). For example, 120 mmHg for systolic pressure, and 80 mmHg for diastolic pressure, it is written as 120/80 mmHg. This level is known as a normal blood pressure; however, if the number is higher it could cause problems, which could lead to cardiovascular diseases.

Therefore, blood pressure is not only a disease, but it is both a disease and a risk to the life of the victim. It could lead to the following:

• Arteriosclerosis: arteries become stiff and thick, so it will be difficult for the blood to flow in them. Because there is lipid inside the tunica media of the arteries
• Heart attack: oxygen supplier, coronary circulation, becomes blocked and cardiac muscle cells die due to lack of oxygen
• Stroke: interruption of the blood being supplied to the brain.
• Kidney failure: loss of the ability to filter waste fluids from the system.

The cause of blood pressure is not actually known, however, the most common indicators are:

• Lack of exercise
• Stress
• Salt intake
• Alcohol intake
• Smoking
• Obesity
• All of the above are known as primary.
• Medical consumptions
• This is known as secondary.

Treatments

• More exercise
• Quitting or reducing alcohol intake
• Quitting smoking.

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