Get the facts and get a handle on hypertension

According to the American Heart Association, every one in three Americans suffers from hypertension, a condition that is becoming more and more widespread as our lifestyle becomes increasingly more sedentary and high-fat foods become more convenient.

Below are some frequently asked questions regarding this dangerously common condition, and information from the AHA on how to avoid developing it.

? What is hypertension?

Hypertension is also referred to as high blood pressure, a condition that occurs when the heart muscle has to work harder to pump blood through the body. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to stroke, heart failure and heart attack.

? How is blood pressure measured?

Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and includes two numbers — 122/79, for example. These numbers refer to both systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Systolic pressure (the top number) refers to the force of the blood pressure against your artery walls as your heart is beating. Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) refers to the pressure exerted on your arteries between heartbeats. This explains why the first number is nearly always greater than the second number.

? What causes hypertension?

While the exact causes of hypertension are not known, there are certain factors that contribute to developing this condition. These include: a family history of hypertension, smoking, being overweight, consuming foods high in salt and saturated fats, not exercising, and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

? How can I tell if I have hypertension?

Hypertension has been referred to as "the silent killer," mainly because the condition often has no symptoms, or comes on so gradually that symptoms go overlooked. The only way to definitively determine whether or not you have high blood pressure is to get your blood pressure checked by a professional health care provider. Ideally, you should get your blood pressure checked at least once a year as part of your annual physical examination.

? What can I do to lower my risk?

Whether you are at risk for developing hypertension, or have already been diagnosed, lifestyle change can have a very positive impact on lowering your blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association.

Eating healthier and following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which focuses on lowering salt intake and eating foods rich in fiber, starting an exercise routine that includes cardio fitness, and quitting smoking are all recommended lifestyle changes.

If your blood pressure is already in the dangerous range (see chart), medications may be prescribed by your physician to help keep your blood pressure in check.

Nikki Luttmann is a community development specialist at Bonner General Hospital.