Blood pressure elevation is a slow, chronic process that if detected early enough can be brought under control. By ignoring the disease, more African-American men are likely to have extensive 'target organ damage,' usually to the heart or kidneys, when they do finally seek medical attention. According to physicians at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, everyone over age 18 should have their blood pressure checked at least every two years, either at their physician's office or at a drug store. High blood pressure is known as the 'silent killer' because you could walk around with it for years and never know it. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.
Blood pressure is pressure exerted by the blood on the wall of any vessel.
A reading greater than or equal to 140 over 90 is considered high. The first number measures blood pressure when the heart beats, while the second number measures pressure as the heart rests. A good reading is 120 over 80. While genetics can play a role in who develops this condition, lifestyle is very important. Diet, including high salt, alcohol and fat intake, smoking, a lack of exercise and stress are all contributing factors.