Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure, and it measures the force of blood against your artery walls. When those numbers stay at or above the normal range, you have hypertension. Here is more information on the link between hypertension and the risk of stroke:
Hypertension Increases Stroke Risk
Because high blood pressure strains your arteries, it damages them over time. The artery walls thicken and stiffen. Plaque builds up more easily in damaged vessels, and these narrowed vessels restrict blood flow to the brain. This process often takes years.
A blood clot may block a narrowed artery, and this blockage causes an ischemic stroke. If a weakened vessel bursts, blood leaks into the brain and causes a hemorrhagic stroke. Hypertension raises the risk of both stroke types.
High blood pressure is the leading controllable risk factor for stroke. Research shows that stroke risk rises as blood pressure climbs. Some people have only mildly elevated readings, but even these readings add to stroke risk over time. Lowering your numbers reduces that risk, although it does not remove it completely.
Symptoms May Be Silent
Hypertension rarely causes symptoms, and many people feel completely normal. Many adults with the condition do not know about it. When symptoms do appear, blood pressure has often reached a dangerous level. Watch for these warning signs:
- Headaches that get severe
- Nosebleeds
- Vision that is blurry
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Dizziness or confusion
High blood pressure is called the “silent killer” because it develops slowly and without obvious symptoms. It can go unnoticed for years, yet during that time, it silently damages blood vessels and vital organs. While some individuals may experience warning signs, such as severe headaches or dizziness, others may have no symptoms at all.
Factors Increase Risk
While anyone may develop hypertension, certain factors raise your chances. Some factors stay outside your control, but others respond to daily habits. The following list covers common risk factors. Each added factor raises your stroke risk further.
- Age over 55
- Family history of high blood pressure or stroke
- Diabetes or high cholesterol
- Smoking or other tobacco use
- Diets high in sodium
- Body weight excess
- Lack of regular physical activity
Lifestyle Changes Are Needed
Daily habits affect your blood pressure readings. The American Heart Association recommends that most adults aim for no more than 1,500 mg of sodium per day. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains add potassium, and potassium helps balance sodium in the body. The DASH eating plan follows this pattern.
Adults need 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, and brisk walking counts toward that goal. If you smoke, talk with your doctor about a plan to quit. Limit alcohol to no more than one drink a day for women or two for men. Some people also need medication, and these habits work alongside it.
Get Evaluated for Hypertension
A blood pressure check takes only a few minutes. If your numbers stay high, your provider may order more tests or recommend treatment. Stroke risk builds quietly, and a simple test shows your current numbers. If you have not had a reading this year, book one with your doctor. Bring a list of your medications when you visit. Schedule your blood pressure screening today.