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WHAT IS HYPERTENSION

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure

is a long-term health condition in which the force of blood against the walls of your arteries stays higher than normal. It means your heart must work harder to pump blood throughout your body. Over time, sustained high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and vital organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.

How Blood Pressure Is Measured

Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers:
  • Systolic pressure is the higher number, indicating the pressure when your heart beats.
  • Diastolic pressure is the lower number, indicating the pressure when your heart relaxes between beats.

Normal blood pressure is generally considered less than 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure consistently measures above certain thresholds, such as a systolic reading of 130 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic reading of 80 mm Hg or higher.

Understanding Your Numbers

Age Group Commonly Observed Systolic/Diastolic (mm Hg) Recommended Target (General Adult Guidelines)
Young Adults (19–40) 100–120 / 60–80 < 120 / < 80
Midlife (41–60) 110–130 / 70–85 < 120 / < 80
Older Adults (61+) 120–140 / 70–90 < 130 / < 80 (individualized)

Diagnostic thresholds for hypertension are consistent across adult age groups. Treatment targets may vary depending on overall health and physician guidance.

CAUSES

That Contributes to High Blood Pressure

Hypertension often develops gradually and may result from a combination of biological, genetic, and lifestyle-related factors. In many individuals, no single cause is identified, but certain conditions and long-term habits can increase the likelihood of elevated blood pressure. Understanding these contributing factors helps explain why hypertension can affect people differently and why management approaches may vary.

  • Age-related changes

  • Family history of hypertension

  • High salt intake over time

  • Chronic stress

  • Being overweight or obese

  • Underlying medical conditions

  • Low levels of physical activity

  • Tobacco and excessive alcohol use

    SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

    HEADACHE

    Persistent or recurring headaches, especially when blood pressure is significantly elevated.

    DIZZINESS

    A feeling of lightheadedness or imbalance, which may occur when blood pressure rises suddenly.

    BLURRED VISION

    Temporary changes in vision caused by pressure-related effects on blood vessels in the eyes.

    CHEST DISCOMFORT

    Tightness or discomfort in the chest when the heart is under increased strain.

    SHORTNESS OF BREATH

    Difficulty breathing during routine activities, especially in more advanced cases.

    FATIGUE

    Unusual tiredness or reduced energy levels without an obvious cause.

    Many people with hypertension experience no symptoms at all, which is why it is often called a silent condition and regular blood pressure checks are important.

    Who Gets Hypertension?

    All Genders

    Men and women can develop hypertension, and the likelihood increases as age increases.

    Very Common

    Hypertension affects millions worldwide and is one of the most common long-term health conditions.

    Often Silent

    Many people feel normal, which is why regular blood pressure checks are important.

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