People with uncontrolled hypertension have an increased risk of having a stroke or heart attack or developing congestive heart failure. From 1984 to 1994, the death rate from hypertension fell 3.9 percent. People with hypertension have an increased risk of heart or kidney disease, or stroke. Heart disease is the number-one killer in the United States, and stroke is the most common cause of death. One in four American adults has high blood pressure, or hypertension.
Hypertension is especially dangerous because there are often no warning signs or symptoms.
If you have mild hypertension, your physician might suggest that you lose weight, cut down on alcohol, get more exercise, or eat less salt. Even if you need to take medication, changing these daily habits may help your medication work better. Even though hypertension can have serious complications if not controlled, there are many things you can do to improve your health. It is extremely important to follow your physician's treatment plan. Anyone, regardless of race, age, sex or heredity, can reduce their chances of developing high blood pressure.