High blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension, is a condition in which the pressure of the blood flowing through your arteries is abnormally high. This condition can cause serious damage to vital organs and is one of the main risk factors for heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

High blood pressure is usually caused by a combination of lifestyle factors, such as eating too much salt, being overweight, smoking, not getting enough physical activity, and drinking too much alcohol. It can also be caused by underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and kidney disease. In some cases, high blood pressure may be caused by genetic factors.

The most common symptoms of high blood pressure are headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If left untreated, however, high blood pressure can lead to serious and life-threatening problems, such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.

There are a number of lifestyle measures you can take to reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure or, if you already have it, manage it. These include eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, limiting your intake of alcohol, exercising regularly, and managing stress.

It is important to regularly monitor your blood pressure, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms. If your blood pressure is elevated, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes and/or medication. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may also need to undergo regular medical supervision.

High blood pressure is an important public health issue that can have serious consequences. The good news is that, with the right lifestyle modifications and, if necessary, the right medications, it is possible to manage the condition and improve your overall health.