SIMPLE QUESTIONS

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is often called hypertension, and your physician may use this term. Remember, if your physician uses a word you don’t understand, ask for an explanation! High blood pressure occurs when your blood exerts a persistent and abnormally high pressure, or force, on your heart and blood vessels.

The ESH defines a systolic blood pressure reading of 140 mm Hg or higher and/or a diastolic blood pressure reading > 90 mm Hg as high blood pressure. The higher the number, the more severe is your blood pressure, and the more risk to your health. High blood pressure is a known risk factor for heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, and must be reduced and controlled to prevent these events. High blood pressure that is not corrected can also cause damage to your kidneys and eyes.