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High Blood Pressure Causes
High blood pressure causes are becoming increasingly prevalent in the modern world. Poor diets and high stress environments make a lethal combination. If left uncontrolled, high blood pressure can cause serious health issues. That’s why it’s important not only to know how to treat your high blood pressure, but also to know how to prevent yourself from ever having it. That’s why it’s important to know if you’re at risk. Here are some of the risk factors for high blood pressure that you can’t prevent. - Race. People of African descent are more likely to have high blood pressure.
- Age and Sex. Below age 55, men are more likely than women to develop high blood pressure. This reverses after that age of 55; however, everyone’s risk increases at that age.
- Heredity. If someone in your family had hypertension, you’re more likely to have it.
- Pregnancy. Some women develop high blood pressure during the last trimester of pregnancy.
Because you can’t control the factors listed above, it is important to take care of those you can, especially if you fall into the above categories. These are some of the high blood pressure causes you can prevent. - Diet. Eating a diet without a lot of fruits and vegetables and with excessive levels of salt can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure.
 - Exercise. The incidence of high blood pressure is lower in those who get regular exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise a day to reduce risk.
- Medical conditions. There are several medical conditions that can raise your blood pressure as a secondary effect. It is important to treat these conditions before high blood pressure becomes a real problem. Some of these diseases are: sleep apnea, kidney disease, and Cushing’s disease. Be sure to ask your doctor if you’re at risk.
- Weight. The heavier you are, the more likely it is you’ll develop hypertension. By losing just a few pounds, you can lower your blood pressure, or just reduce your risk in the future.
- Stress. Being highly stressed all the time increases the likelihood of developing high blood pressure. Try some relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, or massage.
- Drinking. A small amount of alcohol every day won’t hurt you and may even be good for you; however, drinking in excess can cause a jump in blood pressure. More than one or two drinks a day increases your risk.
- Smoking. You already know you should quit smoking; I don’t need to tell you that. Along with all the other negative consequences, smoking can also lead to high blood pressure.
- Medications. Certain legal and illegal drugs can raise blood pressure. If you are taking one of these drugs, you should ask your doctor if there is a safer alternative. If they are illegal drugs, your doctor can get you help for quitting. Drugs that put you at risk are: steroids, cocaine, anti-inflammatories, cold medicines, decongestants, diet pills, some antidepressants, and oral contraceptives.
Don’t wait until it’s too late; know the facts about high blood pressure causes and take the steps to decrease your risk today.
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