subject: 3 Typical Causes of High Blood Pressure [print this page] 3 Typical Causes of High Blood Pressure 3 Typical Causes of High Blood Pressure
Having your blood pressure checked on a regular basis is the only way to know if you suffer from high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, which has many causes and risk factors. While there is no single cause of high blood pressure, there are a variety of factors that can contribute to it. The following are some factors that can lead to high blood pressure.High blood pressure is more common among older people, though it can afflict people of all ages. Both men and women are more prone to hypertension as they age, but men are more likely to develop it sooner.Unfortunately, however, as obesity increases in younger people, we are now seeing high blood pressure develop at earlier ages lately. In other words, it makes good sense to get regular blood pressure readings, and the older you get the more important this becomes. Many of your everyday activities, such as how you eat, and if you smoke, can also influence your blood pressure. Some people have a family history of high blood pressure and are more likely than average to develop this condition. If for example your parents, one or both, have hypertension you need to watch out for it. Since diabetes and kidney problems can also be associated with high blood pressure it's important to make note of these conditions in your family history too. If you want to control your blood pressure it's important to take control of the factors you have control over such as lifestyle. Genetics can play a role but it isn't a death sentence.Sleep apnea is not a well known cause of high blood pressure. Sleep apnea sufferers stop breathing for up to a minute at a time while they are sleeping at night. Because snoring is caused by obstructed breathing while asleep, many people with sleep apnea also snore. Because sleep apnea prevents you from getting restful sleep, people with this condition are often tired. People who smoke or who are overweight are at the greatest risk for sleep apnea, but the only way to get it diagnosed is to do a sleep study at a sleep disorder clinic. Because sleep apnea can lead to heart disease as well as high blood pressure, it is extremely important to find out if you have this condition. Your medical and family history, exercise habits and diet can all be contributing factors when it comes to hypertension. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor can help you identify any risk factors so you can make the necessary changes. The above are some typical causes of high blood pressure, so if any of these apply to you it's a good idea to have your blood pressure checked. Reducing your blood pressure is something everyone can do once you know it's something you have to focus on.Find out more about high blood pressure. High blood pressure is called the silent killer, so get the facts now.
