Heart and blood vessel problems develop over time, when arteries that supply the heart or brain with blood slowly become clogged from a buildup of cells, fat and cholesterol. This buildup is called plaque. When the blood flow gets blocked, you could have a heart attack or stroke. Blood clots form, so less blood can get through. This can cause heart attacks and strokes.
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls.
The top, systolic number is the pressure when the heart beats. The bottom, diastolic number is the pressure when the heart is at rest. There are no signs, so you must see a doctor every year. Also, no one knows exactly what causes it. Yet, high blood pressure can lead to hardened arteries, stroke or heart attack.