Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure is associated with many serious health problems. It can increase your risk of stroke and potentially lead to heart failure without the right treatment. There are two types of hypertension, and understanding how they affect the body is key to managing high blood pressure and ensuring a healthy life.
Primary hypertension is not linked to any underlying health condition. Over time, plaque can accumulate in the arteries and cause them to narrow. This makes it harder for blood to pump through the body, which increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
While doctors are not sure what causes primary hypertension, they do recommend healthy lifestyle changes to prevent negative effects on your health, such as:
Stress can also cause blood pressure to increase, especially when it’s a constant occurrence. Over time, stress can even harm blood vessels, so it’s crucial to have an effective stress management strategy in place.
Primary hypertension typically develops over time, but secondary hypertension can occur suddenly. Secondary hypertension results from medical conditions and disorders, including:
Secondary high blood pressure can also be caused by medications and other drugs. This includes cold medications and birth control pills, as well as illicit drugs like cocaine.
Whether you experience primary or secondary hypertension, there are ways to manage the medical issue. A doctor can provide advice on healthy lifestyle choices while also helping you find an effective treatment for any underlying medical conditions.