High blood pressure is common in senior citizens because blood pressure tends to rise with age unless you take steps to prevent or control it. It is a serious condition that can significantly increase the probability of having coronary heart disease, a heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems and risks.

It is very important that you know the risk factors, so that you can perform the necessary precautions to keep the blood level at normal level. You may notice several signs or symptoms, depending on your condition and other underlying causes. Here are some more guidelines.

What Causes This?

First of all, you must know the different categories of blood pressure. Normal blood pressure ranges below 120/80. Pre-hypertension ranges concerning 120/139 and 80/89. Stage 1 hypertension will be between 140/159 and 90-99. Point 2 hypertension is between one 160 and above/100 and above. It is crucial that you consult your doctor immediately after you notice your blood pressure reaching over 120/80. The doctor will do some tests to look for the cause and other triggers.

Diet and life style greatly affects essential hypertension. Hypertensive people are generally salt sensitive. Other influencing factors include obesity, stress, inadequate usage of calcium, potassium and magnesium, extended alcohol consumption and inadequate exercise.

Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Certain lifestyle habits can be risk factors for HBP.

1. Smoking
2. Consuming too much sodium in salty foods or drinks
3. Insufficient potassium intake
4. Insufficient exercise or physical activity
5. Drinking an excess of alcohol

Doctors usually check the family unit background, diet and exercise habits of the person to look for the causes and triggers. The doctors will check other medications and supplements which could trigger the condition. The blood pressure is checked via non-invasive or even invasive means. Physical assessment can be done to investigate further. Diagnosis will be done after the laboratory methods.