Uncontrolled high blood pressure raises the risk for heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death in the United States. Fortunately, high blood pressure is treatable and preventable.
- High blood pressure may be linked to dementia.
Recent studies show that high blood pressure is linked to a higher risk for dementia, a loss of cognitive function. Timing seems to matter. Evidence suggests that having uncontrolled high blood pressure during midlife (ages 44 to 66) creates a higher risk for dementia later in life. The takeaway? It is never too early to start thinking about your blood pressure and taking steps to manage your high blood pressure.
2. Young people can have high blood pressure, too.
High blood pressure does not just happen to older adults. Nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 20 to 44 have high blood pressure.
3. High blood pressure usually does not have any symptoms.
High blood pressure is sometimes called the “silent killer.” Most people with high blood pressure do not have any symptoms. Because many people feel fine, they don’t think they need to get their blood pressure checked.
4. Many people who have high blood pressure do not know it.
About 1 in 3 U.S. adults with high blood pressure are not even aware they have it and are not being treated to control their blood pressure. Ask your health care team what your blood pressure numbers mean and if they are too high. Stick to your treatment plan and follow your provider’s advice if you are diagnosed with high blood pressure.
5. Women and African Americans face unique risks when it comes to high blood pressure.
Women with high blood pressure who become pregnant are more likely to have complications during pregnancy than those with normal blood pressure. High blood pressure during pregnancy can harm a mother’s kidneys and other organs, and it can lead to premature delivery and low birth weight babies.
African American men and women have higher rates of high blood pressure than any other racial or ethnic group. These individuals are also more likely to be hospitalized for high blood pressure. Experts think these health disparities are tied to higher rates of obesity and diabetes.
By living a healthy lifestyle, you can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range and lower your risk for heart disease and stroke. A healthy lifestyle includes:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Getting enough physical activity
- Not smoking
- Limiting alcohol use
Source: https://www.cdc.gov
