Blood pressure is the force of moving blood against the artery walls. Blood pressure rises and falls throughout the day in response to different stresses. When blood pressure remains high for an extended period of time, it is considered high blood pressure. If left untreated, blood pressure can increase the risk for heart disease and stroke. A blood pressure level above 140/90 mmHG is considered high. A blood pressure level between 120/80 mmHG and 140/90 mmHG is considered prephyertensive. While not in the high range, persons with prehypertension are at greater risk to develop high blood pressure in the future.

 
Blood pressure is measured in two parts — systolic and diastolic. Systolic pressure, the top number, indicates the force of blood flow in the arteries while the heart is beating. Diastolic pressure, the bottom number, indicates the force of blood flow in the arteries as the heart rests between beats.

 
In most causes of high blood pressure, the cause is unknown. This condition is considered primary or essential high blood pressure. There are a variety of factors that may contribute to this condition. These include obesity, excessive alcohol use, high salt intake, stress, diabetes, family history, sedentary lifestyle, age, and nicotine use.

A small percentage of people have secondary blood pressure, which can be caused by conditions such as kidney disease, reactions to medications taken for other conditions, and pregnancy.

Left untreated, high blood pressure can affect your health in different ways. The increased pressure can damage the lining of the artery walls. This can makes the arteries more susceptible to a buildup of plaque, known as hardening of the arteries. This condition can result in a heart attack. Heart failure is another byproduct of high blood pressure. Because high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder, the heart becomes enlarged and is not able to maintain sufficient blood flow, resulting in heart failure.

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