What Are Your High Blood Pressure Risk Factors

There may be some high blood pressure risk factors that is simply part of your DNA that cannot be altered. But there are some factors that can be changed, such as controlling your weight, exercising, drinking habits, de-stressing your life, and in doing so can make a big difference to your health.

Knowing the difference of normal blood pressure and what is high blood pressure can be life changing.

Risk Factors You Cannot Change

Age: The older you are the higher your risk of developing high blood pressure. Most senior citizen have high blood pressure. There are a lot of contributing factors for this, some are poor nutrition, lack of exercise, a general decrease in their kidney function and also being overweight.

DNA/Genes: As you know your genes provide a blueprint for your life. Your genes determine everything from the color of your skin and hair to your susceptibility and resistance to disease. If one of your parents have high blood pressure then you have a 25% change of developing the disease.

Race: African-Americans leads the charge in having high blood pressure. African-Americans develop high blood pressure twice as compared Caucasians.

Risk Factors You Can Change

Alcohol Abuse: It is a known fact that the abuse of alcohol increases both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. So it is best to limit your consumption of alcohol.

Obesity: Early childhood obesity significantly increases high blood pressure risk. Losing weight is one of the most effective way to reduce your blood pressure.

Prevention Is Key

There are all different types of techniques that prevent high blood pressure and also help to lower your blood pressure after it is present. But the greatest differences between prevention and treatment comes down to costs and risks of medications that are being prescribed.

So take your medication to maintain a normal blood pressure that will automatically reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and death.

Return From High Blood Pressure Risk to What Is High Blood Pressure