5 Major Causes of High Blood Pressure and How to Manage Them

Heart disease and related conditions are increasingly common, resulting in many deaths each year, mostly due to high blood pressure. This problem affects many people and is often worsened by unhealthy lifestyle choices, too much salt in the diet, stress, and lack of physical activity. High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer."

While it's important for those with high blood pressure to cut back on salt, simply eliminating salt from the diet isn't enough to control the condition. Additionally, certain unhealthy habits can greatly raise the risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure, and strokes. High blood pressure is a serious condition marked by increased pressure in the arteries, which makes the heart work harder. This condition raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Processed Foods: Packaged foods, often high in sodium, are widely available and contribute to high blood pressure. These products typically contain unhealthy fats and additives.

Alcohol: Alcohol consumption can harm the body and should be avoided by those with high blood pressure, as it can further elevate blood pressure by dilating blood vessels, making the heart work harder.

Obesity: Overeating and a lack of physical activity lead to obesity, which puts additional strain on the heart and can result in high blood pressure. Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for overall health.

Excess Stress: Stress from work or constant worrying can lead to high blood pressure. The body releases adrenaline in response to stress, increasing heart rate and blood pressure, which may result in strokes or heart attacks.

Smoking: Smoking exacerbates high blood pressure and significantly raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes.