Related Video: High Blood Pressure and the DASH Diet
Related Video: Controlling Your High Blood Pressure
Related Video: High Blood Pressure and the DASH Diet
Related Video: Controlling Your High Blood Pressure
The body has many steps to help keep blood pressure in a healthy range. It is not clear what changes happen that lead to high blood pressure. Things that may play a role are:
This problem usually starts when a person is between 20 and 50 years of age. The risk increases with age. Other things that may raise the risk are:
Most people do not have symptoms until blood pressure is very high. Problems may be:
High blood pressure is often found during a doctor's visit. If the reading is high, you will come back for repeat checks. High blood pressure will be confirmed after more than two readings over more than two visits.
A doctor's office can make some people nervous. This can cause higher than normal blood pressure. You may be asked to measure your blood pressure at home or in another location.
The goal of treatment is to lower blood pressure. The methods used may need to be changed over time. Choices are:
Lifestyle changes are often the first method used to lower blood pressure. Options are:
People who are not helped by lifestyle changes may need medicine. Options are:
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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