Aug 21 2008
The First Step in Prevention: Finding a High Blood Pressure Cause
High blood pressure can increase your risk of other medical problems, like heart attack and stroke. Although a cause is not found in most cases of high blood pressure, there are a few circumstances where it can be pinpointed. These high blood pressure causes are seen with secondary blood pressure, such as when the rise is due to medications you are taking or another illness. Although a cause of high blood pressure cannot usually be found, risk factors can increase your odds of getting diagnosed with high blood pressure.
Risks out of your Control
Some risk factors that are considered a high blood pressure cause can’t be controlled. These include age, since your risk factor goes up as you get older. Race is another possible high blood pressure cause, since African Americans are at a higher risk of getting diagnosed with high blood pressure earlier in life and suffering from serious complications as a result. Finally, family history can be considered a high blood pressure cause, since this condition seems to have a genetic link for some people.
What you can Do
Other risks that might be considered a high blood pressure cause are within your control. These risk factors might include keeping your weight in check, eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and getting a daily dose of exercise. Smoking or drinking in excess can also be a possible high blood pressure cause, so quit or cut back to keep your body and your heart healthy.
Sodium and potassium are two substances that can have an effect on your blood pressure, so they are worth monitoring closely in your diet. It is a good idea to increase your intake of potassium by eating more fruits and vegetables. At the same time, you can cut back on your sodium intake by adding other seasoning instead of salt to your cooking and reading labels to avoid foods that are high in sodium.
Stress is another significant high blood pressure cause, since studies have shown that excessive stress levels can increase your blood pressure and put strain on your heart. While you probably can’t avoid stress altogether, you can find ways to reduce your stress level or manage your tension more effectively. This might include exercising daily, talking about your stress or finding ways to relax.
A high blood pressure cause may be difficult to pinpoint, but you can find ways to reduce your risk of this condition by following a few simple guidelines. A healthy diet, daily exercise and avoiding unhealthy habits can go far in keeping your blood pressure low and your body healthy.
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