Health Information Series

About 90 to 95 percent of all cases of high blood pressure is what is called primary or essential hypertension. This means that you know the real cause of high blood pressure, but there are various factors related to the disease. The risk of hypertension is higher if you:

* A family history of hypertension.
* It is African American. African Americans have a higher incidence of hypertension than whites, and the disease usually appears at an earlier age and be more severe.
* It is male. In women the risk is higher after 55 years.
* Has over 60 years. The blood vessels become weak with age and lose their elasticity.
* It faces high levels of stress. According to some studies, stress, anger, hostility and other personality characteristics contribute to hypertension, but the results have not always been uniform. Emotional factors most likely contribute to the risk of certain people who have other risk factors for hypertension.
* Are overweight or obese.
* Use snuff products. Smoking damages blood vessels.
* Use oral contraceptives. Women who smoke and use oral contraceptives greatly increase their risk.
* Eat a diet high in saturated fat.
* Eat a diet high in sodium (salt).
* Drink more than a moderate amount of alcohol. Experts say that moderate consumption is an average of one to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. One drink is defined as 1.5 fl oz (44 ml) of spirits with an alcoholic strength of 40 ° (80 proof) (eg. Bourbon, Scotch, vodka, gin, etc.), 1 fl oz ( 30 ml) of spirits with an alcoholic strength of 50 ° (100 proof), 4 fluid ounces (118 ml) of wine or 12 fluid ounces (355 ml) of beer.
* It is physically inactive.
* Have diabetes.

Researchers have also discovered a gene that appears to be linked to hypertension. Having the gene does not mean that a person or their children will develop high blood pressure. But it means they will have a greater chance of getting it, so it is important to monitor blood pressure regularly.

The 5-10 per cent of patients with high blood pressure have what is called secondary hypertension. This means that high blood pressure is caused by another disease or condition. Many cases of secondary hypertension are caused by kidney disorders. The following are other factors that can cause secondary hypertension

* Disorders of the parathyroid glands.
* Acromegaly, which is when the pituitary gland produces excess growth hormone.
* Tumors of the adrenal or pituitary glands.
* Reactions to medications prescribed for other medical problems.
* Pregnancy.

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