High blood pressure is a frequent disorder affecting the arteries of the body. It is also known as hypertension. When you are hypertensive, the force of the blood pressing against the artery walls is always too strong. To pump blood, the heart has to work harder.

Millimeters of mercury is used to measure blood pressure (mm Hg). Hypertension is defined as a blood pressure value of 130/80 mm Hg or greater.

Hypertension is classified into four categories by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association.

Normal Pressure – is less than 120/80 mm Hg.

High blood pressure – The upper value varies from 120 to 129 mm Hg, whereas the lower number is lower than 80mm hg.

Stage 1 Hypertension – The upper limit is between 130 and 139 mm Hg, while the lower limit is between 80 and 89 mm Hg.

Stage 2 Hypertension – The upper limit is 140 mm Hg or higher, while the lower limit is 90 mm Hg or higher.

A hypertensive emergency or crisis is defined as a pressure of more than 180/120 mm Hg. Anyone with these pressure readings should seek emergency medical attention.

Hypertension if left untreated, raises the chance of a heart attack, stroke, and other significant health concerns. Beginning at the age of 18, it is critical to have your blood pressure monitored at least every two years. Some people require more regular checks.

Healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, exercising, and eating healthily can aid in the prevention and treatment of hypertension.

Symptoms

The majority of persons with hypertension have no symptoms, even if the measurements are dangerously high. High blood pressure can exist for years without causing any symptoms.

Some hypertensive patients may have:

• Headaches
• Breathing difficulty
• Nosebleeds

These symptoms, however, are not specific. They normally do not appear until the pressure has progressed to a severe or life-threatening level.