For example, African Americans develop high blood pressure earlier and more often than Caucasians. The diagnosis of high blood pressure is made on the basis of many blood pressure readings. It is diagnosed if several readings show a systolic blood pressure greater than 140 or a diastolic blood pressure greater than 90. Other tests may be ordered to look for conditions causing the high blood pressure. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to many serious long-term effects.
Damage can occur in the brain, kidneys, and heart.
There can also be blood vessel damage to the eye. High blood pressure is not contagious and poses no risk to others. Secondary high blood pressure can sometimes be controlled by treating the underlying condition. Effective treatment of Cushing's syndrome may lower blood pressure. Open heart surgery to correct coarctation of the aorta can correct high blood pressure.