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By: Aashay Edwin Maghi (CPT)
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High blood pressure also called Hypertension. It results when blood pushes too hard against artery walls. It often develops gradually and can go unnoticed without regular checks.
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Family history plays a big role in hypertension risk. If close relatives have it, your chances rise. Genetic factors can affect how your body controls blood volume and vessel tone.
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As we age, arteries naturally stiffen, raising blood pressure over time. African Americans often develop hypertension earlier and more severely than other groups.
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Excess weight forces the heart to pump harder, elevating pressure on vessel walls. Lack of exercise worsens this by reducing arterial flexibility.
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Eating too much salt causes your body to retain water, which boosts blood volume and pressure. Processed and fast foods are common sources of hidden sodium.
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Stress triggers hormone release (e.g., cortisol) that narrows blood vessels temporarily. Long‑term anxiety or depression can keep blood pressure elevated over months or years.
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Drinking excessive alcohol raises blood pressure by affecting heart rate and vessel constriction. Regular smoking damages artery walls, making them less elastic and more prone to high pressure.
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Kidney disease often disrupts fluid balance, causing secondary hypertension. Diabetes and sleep apnea both stress the cardiovascular system, raising pressure.
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Certain medications like NSAIDs, some antidepressants, and birth control pills can elevate blood pressure. Always review side effects with your doctor and explore alternatives if hypertension develops.
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Limiting salt, staying active, and managing stress can prevent or lower high blood pressure. If you suspect hypertension, see your doctor for regular monitoring and personalized guidance.