High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure—also called hypertension—is one of the most common chronic health conditions in the United States. Often called the “silent killer,” it typically develops without noticeable symptoms but can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
When blood pressure stays too high for too long, it can damage your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, brain, and other organs. The good news is that hypertension is preventable and manageable with lifestyle changes, regular monitoring, and medical care when needed.
Learning how blood pressure works and understanding your numbers are the first steps toward protecting your heart and overall health.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood throughout your body. It is measured using two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (top number) The pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure (bottom number) The pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
A blood pressure reading is written as systolic over diastolic, such as 120/80 mm Hg.
High blood pressure occurs when this force remains consistently elevated. Over time, this increased pressure can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to vital organs, increasing the risk of serious conditions including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
- Vision loss
- Cognitive decline
Because symptoms often do not appear until damage has occurred, regular blood pressure checks are essential.
Why Hypertension Matters
Hypertension affects millions of Americans and is a leading contributor to cardiovascular disease. Even moderately elevated blood pressure can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke over time.
Many people live with high blood pressure without realizing it. This is why healthcare professionals recommend routine screenings, especially for adults over age 40 or individuals with risk factors such as obesity, tobacco use, or a family history of hypertension.
Monitoring and managing blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure readings are categorized into several levels. Knowing where your numbers fall can help you and your healthcare provider determine whether lifestyle changes or treatment may be needed.
- Normal Less than 120 / less than 80
- Elevated120–129 / less than 80
- Stage 1 Hypertension130–139 or 80–89
- Stage 2 Hypertension140 or higher or 90 or higher
- Hypertensive CrisisHigher than 180 and/or higher than 120
If your blood pressure reaches hypertensive crisis levels, seek medical care immediately—especially if you experience symptoms such as:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Severe headache
- Vision changes
- Difficulty speaking
- Weakness or numbness
How High Blood Pressure Is Diagnosed
A healthcare provider diagnoses hypertension by measuring blood pressure with a medical device called a sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff).
Because blood pressure can fluctuate throughout the day, diagnosis typically requires multiple readings taken on different days.
Your provider may recommend:
- Blood pressure checks during office visits
- Home monitoring using a digital blood pressure monitor
- Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring over a 24-hour period
Tracking blood pressure over time helps ensure an accurate diagnosis and allows healthcare providers to determine the best course of treatment.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure at Home
Regular monitoring is one of the most effective ways to manage hypertension and detect problems early.
The Charles County Department of Health offers the Healthy Hearts Start at Home program, a four-month blood pressure self-monitoring initiative designed to help residents better understand and manage their numbers.
Through this program, participants learn how to:
- Properly measure blood pressure at home
- Track readings over time
- Identify lifestyle changes that improve heart health
- Work with healthcare providers to manage hypertension
Learn more and sign up for the program here:
https://charlescountyhealth.org/healthy-hearts-start-at-home/
Risk Factors for Hypertension
Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing high blood pressure. Some are unavoidable, while others can be improved through lifestyle changes.
Common risk factors include:
- Family history of hypertension
- Being overweight or obese
- Physical inactivity
- High sodium intake
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Chronic stress
- Diabetes or kidney disease
- Tobacco use
Smoking and other forms of tobacco significantly increase the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease by damaging blood vessels and increasing blood pressure.
Learn more about this connection here:
https://charlescountyhealth.org/the-hidden-dangers-how-tobacco-use-increases-your-risk-for-chronic-disease-and-hypertension/
Changes You Can Make to Manage High Blood Pressure
Many people can successfully manage or lower their blood pressure by adopting healthier habits.
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Focus on foods rich in nutrients that support heart health:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Low-fat dairy products
- Foods low in sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars
Stay Physically Active
Regular physical activity helps strengthen the heart and improve blood circulation. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Even small amounts of weight loss can significantly improve blood pressure levels.
Reduce Sodium Intake
Many processed foods contain high amounts of sodium, which can increase blood pressure. Limiting sodium intake and preparing meals at home can help manage hypertension.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure. Moderation is key.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress may contribute to elevated blood pressure. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, exercise, and adequate sleep can help.
Quit Tobacco
Quitting smoking improves heart health and lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease.
For additional guidance, read our resource on:
https://charlescountyhealth.org/managing-hypertension-steps-to-lower-your-blood-pressure/
Preventing High Blood Pressure
The same healthy habits used to manage hypertension can also help prevent it.
Taking proactive steps early in life can significantly reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure and its complications.
Simple prevention strategies include:
- Eating a balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Reducing sodium intake
- Managing stress
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Monitoring blood pressure regularly
Learn more about prevention strategies in this article:
https://charlescountyhealth.org/preventing-hypertension-simple-steps-for-a-healthier-future/
Learn More About Heart Health
Education and awareness are powerful tools in preventing and managing hypertension. The Charles County Department of Health offers resources and programs designed to support community members in improving their cardiovascular health.
Explore additional information and resources:
- Managing Hypertension
- Preventing Hypertension
- Tobacco and Chronic Disease Risk
- Healthy Hearts Start at Home Program
