This Happens When the Blood Pressure is Higher Than Normal
Introduction
Blood pressure is the force at which blood flows through the arteries. It is measured by two numbers, the systolic pressure and the diastolic pressure, which are the highest and lowest pressure points of the heartbeat cycle, respectively. Normal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80 mmHg or lower. When the blood pressure is higher than normal, it can cause a range of health problems. In this article, we will discuss what happens when the blood pressure is higher than normal and why it is important to keep it under control.
The Effects of High Blood Pressure on the Heart
When the blood pressure is higher than normal, it puts a strain on the heart and blood vessels. This can lead to a range of heart problems, including:
- Coronary artery disease: High blood pressure can cause the arteries that supply blood to the heart to become narrow and hard, making it difficult for blood to flow through them.
- Enlarged left heart: The heart has to work harder to pump blood when the blood pressure is high, which can cause the left ventricle to thicken and enlarge.
- Heart failure: Over time, the strain on the heart can weaken it and lead to heart failure, a condition in which the heart can no longer pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
The Effects of High Blood Pressure on the Brain
High blood pressure can also have serious effects on the brain. When the blood vessels in the brain are damaged, it can lead to:
- Stroke: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or interrupted.
- Dementia: Damage to the blood vessels in the brain can also increase the risk of dementia, a condition that affects memory, thinking, and behavior.
- Cognitive impairment: High blood pressure can also cause cognitive impairment, which is a decline in memory, attention, and other mental abilities.
The Effects of High Blood Pressure on the Kidneys
The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and regulating fluid balance in the body. High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, which can lead to:
- Chronic kidney disease: Over time, the damage to the blood vessels in the kidneys can lead to chronic kidney disease, a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their function.
- Kidney failure: In severe cases, high blood pressure can cause the kidneys to fail completely, which can be life-threatening.
The Effects of High Blood Pressure on the Eyes
High blood pressure can also have effects on the eyes. When the blood vessels in the eyes are damaged, it can lead to:
- Retinopathy: High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, the part of the eye that senses light. This can cause vision problems and, in severe cases, blindness.
Conclusion
High blood pressure is a serious health problem that can have a range of negative effects on the body. If you have high blood pressure, it is important to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that can help bring your blood pressure under control. This may include lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, as well as medications to lower your blood pressure. By taking steps to control your blood pressure, you can reduce your risk of developing serious health problems and improve your overall health and well-being.
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