by Marisa Hefflefinger

Created on: April 04, 2008   Last Updated: May 13, 2008

CONDITION

Hypertension is better known as high blood pressure. Blood pressure is measured in numerical terms of systolic and diastolic. The systolic, or top number, measures the amount of pressure in blood vessels as the heart pumps blood. The diastolic, or bottom number, also measures the pressure in blood vessels, but it is monitored between heart beats, while the heart rests.

A healthy reading is 120/80, although some medical staff and organizations have recently set the goal at a slightly lower reading. Pressures over that standard, but under 140/90, are considered prehypertension. Pressures 140/90 or greater are classified as hypertension. Malignant hypertension, which is extremely high blood pressure, will measure a minimum of 210/120 and is considered life-threatening.

RISKS

Most people will experience a high blood pressure reading at one time or another, and it is generally no reason to be alarmed. However, a person with hypertension will have consistently high pressures, and that can lead to further health problems. Risks include:

Kidney Failure. The kidneys control the fluids in a body by excreting the excess as urine. When blood pressure is high, the body accumulates more fluids which cause the kidneys to become overworked, eventually failing.

Heart Failure. Hypertension can weaken the heart over time. In that weakened state, the heart cannot pump the blood a body requires to survive, and will fail.

Heart Attack. A heart attack occurs when blood flowing through the arteries becomes limited or blocked. Prolonged hypertension can cause a hardening of the arteries, making it difficult for blood to pass in and out of the heart.

Stroke. Hypertension can reduce the blood supply sent to vital organs of the body. A stroke, which limits oxygen to the brain, happens when blood supply is reduced.

In pregnant women, hypertension will be monitored closely and treated with medication and/or bed rest, as it can cause severe problems for the baby and mother if left untreated.

SYMPTOMS

A high blood pressure reading by your doctor is the most common symptom, since hypertension can be present in an individual without being obvious. The following symptoms can occur, but usually only with pressures that have reached a critical stage. Nonetheless, you should consult a doctor if you experience any symptom for more than a day or two, or a combination of:

Dizziness. Lightheadedness will be at varying degrees and can result in fainting.

Headaches. Headaches will be severe, possibly lasting

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