Blood pressure is one of the most important indicators of cardiovascular health. It represents the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. When this pressure stays too high over time, it can strain the heart, damage blood vessels, and increase the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is recorded with two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (top number): the force when the heart beats
- Diastolic pressure (bottom number): the force when the heart relaxes between beats
A normal reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg, while readings consistently at or above 130/80 mm Hg are considered high and require monitoring or intervention.
Why Blood Pressure Matters
High blood pressure often called hypertension forces the heart to work harder to pump blood. Over time, this increased strain can weaken the heart and damage organs. Because many people have no symptoms until complications develop, regular blood pressure checks are essential.
Risk Factors
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing high blood pressure:
- Family history of hypertension or heart disease
- Age and race
- Excess weight or obesity
- Diets high in sodium
- Physical inactivity
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Stress and certain chronic conditions like kidney disease or diabetes
Lifestyle and Dietary Habits That Help
A heart‑healthy diet emphasizes:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins and fish
- Low‑fat dairy
- Limited salt (sodium) and added sugars
These habits support healthy heart function and help prevent hypertension.
Checking Your Numbers Regularly
Because high blood pressure typically shows few obvious symptoms, routine monitoring is vital especially for adults over 18 and those with risk factors. If your readings are consistently elevated, discuss them with a cardiologist.
Treatment and Support at Chiron Hospital
At Chiron Hospital’s Cardiology Clinic in Lagos, our specialists offer:
- Blood pressure assessment and monitoring
- Personalized care plans combining lifestyle changes and medications
- Heart risk evaluation, including cholesterol and glucose checks
- Follow-up and patient education to prevent long-term complications
Our cardiology team works with you to manage blood pressure safely and effectively, reducing your risk of heart disease and related conditions.
Take Action for Your Heart Today
Don’t wait for symptoms take control of your heart health now.
Schedule a consultation at Chiron Hospital’s Cardiology Clinic today:
🌐 Website: www.chironhospital.org
📞 Phone: +234 909 000 1078
Your heart deserves expert care. Let our cardiology specialists guide you to a healthier, stronger heart.
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