What is considered high blood pressure?

Normal is below 120/80. Elevated is 120–129/<80. Stage 1 hypertension is 130–139/80–89. Stage 2 is 140/90 or higher. Above 180/120 is a hypertensive crisis requiring immediate attention.

Can high blood pressure be cured?

Primary hypertension cannot be cured but can be effectively controlled. Secondary hypertension may be cured if the underlying cause is treated. Most people need lifelong management.

Can stress cause high blood pressure?

Temporary stress causes short-term spikes, but is not a proven cause of chronic hypertension. However, stress-related behaviors like overeating and poor sleep can contribute.

CardiovascularICD-10: I10Affects nearly half (47%) of U.S. adults — approximately 116 million people

High Blood Pressure

Also known as: Hypertension, HTN, Elevated Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a chronic condition in which the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Often called the 'silent killer,' it typically causes no symptoms until significant organ damage has occurred. Regular monitoring and treatment can effectively control hypertension.

Symptoms

Usually asymptomatic

Severe headaches (in hypertensive crisis)

Shortness of breath

Nosebleeds (in severe cases)

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Chest pain

Blood in the urine

Visual changes

Causes

Primary hypertension: no single identifiable cause; develops gradually
Secondary hypertension: caused by kidney disease, adrenal tumors, or thyroid disorders
Obstructive sleep apnea
Certain medications (NSAIDs, decongestants, birth control pills)

Risk Factors

Family history
Age
Obesity and physical inactivity
High-sodium, low-potassium diet
Excessive alcohol consumption
Smoking

Diagnosis

Blood pressure measurement (readings ≥130/80 mmHg indicate hypertension)
Ambulatory 24-hour blood pressure monitoring
Blood and urine tests to assess kidney function and cholesterol
ECG and echocardiogram to evaluate heart impact

Treatment

Lifestyle modifications: DASH diet, sodium reduction, exercise, weight loss
Thiazide diuretics
ACE inhibitors or ARBs
Calcium channel blockers
Beta-blockers for specific indications
Combination therapy for resistant hypertension

Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight
Follow the DASH diet
Limit sodium to less than 2,300 mg per day
Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco

When to See a Doctor

Blood pressure readings are consistently above 130/80 mmHg
You experience severe headache, chest pain, or visual changes
Blood pressure exceeds 180/120 mmHg (emergency)
You have risk factors and haven't had your blood pressure checked recently

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Heart Attack

Cardiovascular

Heart Failure

Cardiovascular

Stroke

Cardiovascular

Chronic Kidney Disease

Urological

Related from the Supplement Library

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

Strong

Compound · Mitochondrial energy production (ATP)

Magnesium Glycinate

Strong

Mineral · Improves sleep quality and onset

Hawthorn Berry

Moderate

Herb · Cardiovascular support and protection

Potassium

Strong

Mineral · Blood pressure regulation

These supplements have been studied in relation to High Blood Pressure. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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