Do not take your increased blood pressure lightly, as it is one of the biggest reasons behind heart disease and stroke. Hypertension or persistent high blood pressure levels are not healthy and damage the blood vessels and vital organs. Visit Dr. Steven Reisman at the New York Cardiac Diagnostic Center to get yourself checked and learn about steps for keeping your blood pressure less than 130/80. The experienced physician will assess and monitor your condition and screen for heart disease to prevent further complications. He will come up with personalized care and treatment plans that focus on enhancing your quality of life.
Blood pressure is a good indicator of overall health. It is the pressure of the blood within the arteries. Two numbers record the measurement. According to doctors, the ideal blood pressure reading is less than 130/80 which helps prevent conditions like hypertension.
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the force within the arteries of the body. It is produced primarily by the contraction of the heart muscle. Blood pressure indicates how strongly your blood pushes against the walls of your arteries. The two numbers in a blood pressure measurement are systolic and diastolic pressure.
The first number that appears is systolic pressure. It is the pressure in the arteries when your heart pumps blood. The other number is diastolic pressure, which indicates the artery’s pressure when the heart rests in between beats.
For adults, the ideal blood pressure is 120/80. A blood pressure reading of even 130/80 is considered stage 1 high blood pressure. If your blood pressure levels remain on the higher side, it means you are hypertensive and need medical attention.
Factors that increase blood pressure
Blood pressure is affected by several factors, including:
- Age – arteries can narrow with age which makes it harder for the blood to flow easily;
- Long term illness;
- Organ problems or failure;
- Long term strenuous physical activities;
- Heredity;
- Obesity;
- Stress;
- Overeating.
Adopting a healthier lifestyle can prevent or delay the onset of high blood pressure and other health problems. If your blood pressure levels fluctuate, a healthy lifestyle combined with medications can help keep it in control and reduce your risk of further complications.
Why Keeping Blood Pressure at Normal Levels Is Important?
Blood pressure levels indicate how healthy you are. They show that the essential organs like the heart, brain, and kidneys are functioning normally. Keeping your blood pressure regularly and monitoring it can make a big difference in the early detection and prevention of potential health problems in the long run.
Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Disease
Frequently high blood pressure can affect your arteries, and they get damaged if you fail to keep your blood pressure regular. Any damage to arteries can disturb blood flow to the heart that can result in cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular disease resulting from high blood pressure may include:
- Coronary artery disease – when the arteries around the heart narrow or get blocked;
- Aneurysm – an artery can rupture and cause fatal internal bleeding when it becomes swollen and forms a bulge;
- Heart attack – when the flow of blood to the heart is disrupted, it leads to heart attack;
- Heart failure – when the heart is unable to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to other organs;
- Enlarged heart – when the heart works hard to pump blood, it can result in heart failure or heart attack.
Brain Diseases and Stroke
Poor blood circulation and narrowed blood vessels are also dangerous for the brain and impair cognitive function. They can also result in life-threatening conditions such as:
- Stroke – blood clots that form in the brain or a blockage can cause impairment and even death if they are not addressed timely;
- Vascular dementia – it can affect your cognition, memory, and decision-making abilities;
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a temporary disruption in the flow of blood to the brain, increasing your risk for a stroke.
Other Health Conditions Caused by High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can affect the normal functioning of the body and poses a threat to vital organs. It can result in:
- Kidney failure – Obstruction in blood flow can also damage the normal functions of the organ. It can result in kidney failure, scarring, and damage to blood vessels in the kidney that filter fluid and waste.
- Eye problems – High blood pressure can damage the arteries in the eyes. Eye problems include retinopathy, fluid buildup under your retina, and eye nerve damage. Prolonged damage to the blood flow to your eyes can result in bleeding, blurry vision, and even blindness.
- Sexual Dysfunction – High blood pressure decreases the flow of blood to the genitals, and men can end up with sexual dysfunction as a result.
Persistent or very high blood pressure is a sign of an emergency. Even if you have no other symptoms but your blood pressure is not less than 130/80, contact your doctor to get the best advice on managing your condition.
How to Keep Your Blood Pressure Normal
Maintaining normal blood pressure is very important for a healthy heart, body, and overall wellbeing. With a wholesome lifestyle, you can look forward to keeping your blood pressure levels under control.
Some people with hypertension require medications as the risks are higher. Consult an experienced doctor to know more about maintaining normal blood pressure and reducing the risk of life-threatening problems that result from hypertension. You can reduce your risk of hypertension by:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight;
- Cutting down or moderating your alcohol intake;
- Including exercise in your daily routine;
- Giving up smoking;
- Eating a balanced diet with more fruits and vegetables;
- Managing stress;
- Going for regular checkups;
- Monitor your intake of caffeine and salt.
A routine medical checkup can help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. The doctor will keep a check on your vitals and recommend the best ways to manage your condition and avoid possible illnesses and complications.
Do not let high blood pressure keep you from enjoying and participating in a full life. Seek help from experienced doctors to prevent your condition from turning critical. At the New York Cardiac Diagnostic Center, Dr. Steven Reisman uses advanced diagnostic methods such as a cardiac ultrasound, stress test, and Holter monitor to determine if you are at risk of hypertension. He will accurately diagnose your problem and develop customized prevention and treatment plans to help you live a healthier and active life with controlled blood pressure levels.
Dr. Steven Reisman is an internationally recognized cardiologist and heart specialist. He is a member of the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and a founding member of the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology.
Dr. Reisman has presented original research findings for the early detection of "high risk" heart disease and severe coronary artery disease at the annual meetings of both the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association. Dr. Reisman was part of a group of doctors with the Food and Drug Administration who evaluated the dipyridamole thallium testing technique before the FDA approved it.
Dr. Steven Reisman's academic appointments include Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of California and Assistant Professor at SUNY. Hospital appointments include the Director of Nuclear Cardiology at the Long Island College Hospital.
