High blood pressure is also known as what?

High blood pressure is also known as hypertension. It occurs when the force of blood pushing against artery walls remains consistently higher than normal.

Blood pressure is recorded with two numbers, such as 120/80 millimeters of mercury. The first number is systolic pressure, measured when the heart contracts; the second is diastolic pressure, measured when the heart relaxes. A diagnosis depends on repeated readings and the guideline being used, not one isolated measurement.

Hypertension is often called a “silent” condition because many people have no noticeable symptoms. Over time, however, uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage arteries and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision problems.

The condition may be influenced by genetics, age, excess salt intake, obesity, alcohol use, kidney disease, and inactivity. Lifestyle changes can help, but some people also need prescription medicine. “Hypertension” refers specifically to persistently elevated blood pressure, not a temporary rise caused by stress or exercise.