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Hypertension - High Blood Pressure


Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the condition?

The American Heart Association guidelines to reduce high blood pressure include:

  • for those who smoke, quitting smoking
  • measurement of blood pressure in adults at least every 2 years to screen for high blood pressure
  • medications to treat high blood pressure. These are recommended if the person's blood pressure is greater than 140/90 after 3 months of these lifestyle modifications. They are also used if the initial blood pressure is greater than 180/100.
  • moderate sodium intake
  • moderation in alcohol intake
  • physical activity
  • weight control
  • What are the long-term effects of the condition?

    Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to many serious long-term effects. Damage can occur in the brain, kidneys, and heart. There can also be blood vessel damage to the eye. High blood pressure can lead to serious health issues, including the following:

  • arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats
  • atherosclerosis, which is hardening of the arteries
  • chronic renal failure that requires dialysis or a kidney transplant
  • congestive heart failure, in which a weakened heart fails to pump blood effectively
  • heart attack
  • stroke, or a brain attack
  • What are the risks to others?

    High blood pressure is not contagious and poses no risk to others.


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