Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood on the inner walls of the arteries. It shows slight fluctuations throughout the day - decreasing during rest and temporarily increasing during excitement or stress. An increase in blood pressure at rest can cause scarring, stiffening or hardening of the arteries. What is high blood pressure? High blood pressure or hypertension is a silent killer that affects 80 million Americans. As many as 16 million Americans are unaware of the condition. Untreated hypertension can increase the risk of heart disease or stroke. High blood pressure occurs because very small blood vessels called arterioles tighten. As a result, the heart has to pump harder to overcome resistance in the narrowed blood vessel bed. This leads to increased pressure inside the vessels. High blood pressure or hypertension is said to occur when readings range from 140 or more for systolic pressure or 90 or more for diastolic pressure. Blood pressure above 180/120 mmHg is dangerously high and requires immediate medical attention. High blood pressure is a more likely cause

• heart attack
• stroke
• heart failure
• loss of sight
• kidney failure
• dementia
• erectile dysfunction
• weak bones

What should I do if my blood pressure is 140/90? Normal pressure is 120/80 or lower. Your blood pressure is considered high (stage 1) if it is 130/80. Stage 2 high blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. If your blood pressure is 180/110 or higher, see your doctor immediately. Is 150 90 A good blood pressure? As a general guide: high blood pressure is considered 140/90mmHg or higher (or 150/90mmHg or higher if you are over 80) ideal blood pressure is usually considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg. What is blood pressure at stroke level? A hypertensive crisis is a serious increase in blood pressure that can lead to a stroke. Extremely high blood pressure an upper number (systolic pressure) of 180 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher or a lower number (diastolic pressure) of 120 mm Hg or higher can damage blood vessels. What are other ways to lower blood pressure?

• Fruits such as bananas, melons, avocados and apricots.
• Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale.
• Vegetables such as potatoes and sweet potatoes.
• Tuna and salmon.
• Fasola.
• Nuts and seeds.