Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of all adult Americans, ~119.9 million people (almost 48%), have high blood pressure.

Hypertension is the persistent force of blood against artery walls that stays too high. Over time, this strains the heart and blood vessels, raising the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

Often, it has no symptoms, so it is usually found through routine measurement.

How it’s typically classified:

  • Normal:  below 120 / 80 mmHg

  • Elevated:  120–129 / under 80

  • Stage 1:  130–139 / 80–89

  • Stage 2:  140+ / 90

Steps commonly taken to lower blood pressure:

  • Eat less salt

  • Choose healthy foods

  • Get moving

  • Quit smoking

  • Limit alcohol