Hypertension is also commonly known as High Blood Pressure. It occurs when the pressure inside a person’s large arteries is very high. The only way to determine if someone has Hypertension is by having your blood pressure measured. This is because the condition is silent. Hypertension can cause other serious health problems and even death. This is why it has been called “the silent killer”. One reason why it has this name is because it does not have any certain symptoms. The only way a person will know for sure is by getting their pressure checked. The other reason for this name is because it is a killer. People who have Hypertension and do not have it treated are more likely to die from strokes, heart attacks, and kidney failure.

Since the only way to determine if your blood pressure is too high is by having it measured, it will have to be done correctly. This is a simple process. Before having it measured, the person should sit and relax for at least 5 minutes. Being stressed, angry, or excited can give the wrong result. It is recommended to avoid caffeine, alcohol, food, and tobacco for an hour before being measured. These can affect the results and misdiagnose a person who may not actually have Hypertension, or it could show the person has an extra high blood pressure than they normally do.

Your blood pressure is determined by two numbers, such as 120/80. The larger number is known as the systolic pressure. This represents the pressure in your arteries that occurs when your heart beats. The lower number is called the diastolic pressure. This number represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart is calm in between heartbeats.

Hypertension can be treated. There have been many advances when it comes to treating Hypertension with medications. The problem is, is that not many people even are aware that they have Hypertension. The people that do know that they have the condition do not always get the best treatment to control their Hypertension.

Everyone should get their blood pressure checked to make sure they are not suffering from High Blood Pressure. It is any easy process, which can save your life. Knowing if you have Hypertension will help you control it and stay healthy. Next time you visit your doctor, suggest having your blood pressure measured.