Knowing some basic info on high blood pressure saves lives. High blood pressure is sometimes abbreviated HBP or clinically called hypertension. It occurs when there is too much pressure in the arteries. The arteries lead from the heart, pumping blood through each of the organs and tissues in the body. Pressure is necessary since it forces blood through the body. Yet, when blood pressure increases too much, this can be dangerous to your health.

What is normal blood pressure? Doctors will tell you what a normal range for your specific needs are. In general, in the range of 120/80 is normal. When blood pressure is between 120/80 and 139/89 this elevated level is called pre- hypertension. When it is above 140/90, doctors refer to this as hypertension, or high blood pressure.

Many people imply that blood pressure is an emotional reaction, especially where women and blood pressure are concerned. It is not. Rather, it is a combination of the heart pumping hard and the inability of the arteries to manage it, often due to a thickening of the artery walls. In healthy people, with a healthy blood pressure, stress, physical exercise and even emotional tension can cause a temporary elevation of blood pressure. This is normal and acceptable. When an individual's blood pressure is high without exertion or stress, this is cause for concern.

Facts You Need To Know About Blood Pressure

• In 2005, high blood pressure was the primary or at least a contributing factor in death for 319,000 Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

• Those who have pre-hypertension are most likely to progress to hypertension within a short amount of time.

• It is an estimate up to 28 percent of American adults has pre-hypertension and many do not realize they have it.

• Hypertension is avoidable in most situations through healthy eating, exercise and weight control.

• Doctors can regulate blood pressure through medication, though they may recommend diet and exercise first.

• High blood pressure is not necessarily hereditary, though you are more likely to develop it if your parents had it.

Overall, the info on high blood pressure is astounding. It is prevalent, and deadly, yet it is treatable. Through healthy screening and a change in lifestyle, many people do succeed in reversing the effects of hypertension.

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