webmaster March 4, 2026Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. The heart pumps blood into blood vessels, which carry the blood throughout the body.
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, means your heart is working harder to pump blood out to the body. It’s a dangerous condition and contributes to hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure.
High blood pressure is a silent health problem that affects millions worldwide, and the causes are often linked to lifestyle choices.
What Is “Normal” Blood Pressure?
A blood pressure reading is written like this: 120/80. It’s read as “120 over 80.” It is measured in mmHg, which is a unit that doctors use to describe pressure. This is like how you use inches to describe length.
The top number of the reading is called the systolic pressure, and the bottom number is called the diastolic pressure. The systolic number measures your blood pressure at the exact moment your heart beats. Meanwhile, the diastolic number measures your blood pressure between each heartbeat.
The ranges are:
- Normal: Less than 120 mmHg/less than 80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120-129 mmHg/less than 80 mmHg
- Stage 1 hypertension: 130-139 mmHg/80-89 mmHg
- Stage 2 hypertension: 140 mmHg or higher/90 mmHg or higher
- Hypertensive crisis: 180 mmHg or higher/120 mmHg or higher — See a doctor right away
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
Several things may play a role in causing high blood pressure. Depending on what is causing your high blood pressure, your doctor will determine which type of hypertension you have: primary (or essential) or secondary. You can have one or both types.
Essential hypertension
Essential hypertension has been linked to certain risk factors in your diet and lifestyle. For example, eating a lot of salt can cause your blood pressure to rise. Many people with this condition are sensitive to salt, so even eating a small amount can trigger a spike in blood pressure.
Other risk factors that can raise the risk of having essential hypertension include:
- Not getting enough exercise
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Having a family member with high blood pressure
- Getting older (especially after 65 years of age)
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Stress
- Insufficient intake of potassium, calcium, and magnesium
- Lack of physical activity
- Chronic alcohol consumption
Secondary hypertension
When a direct cause for high blood pressure can be identified, the condition is described as secondary hypertension. This type of high blood pressure is caused by a different health condition. It is usually more sudden and severe than essential hypertension. Some causes include:
- Kidney disease. This is the most common cause of secondary hypertension.
- Adrenal disorders. Hypertension can also be triggered by tumors or other abnormalities of adrenal glands (small structures that sit atop the kidneys). Adrenal tumors or disorders can cause them to release too much of the hormones that elevate blood pressure.
- Thyroid disorders. Too much or too little thyroid hormone can affect your blood pressure.
- Congenital heart defects. Some people are born with heart or blood vessel problems.
- Obstructive sleep apnea. This condition causes breathing problems and lack of oxygen. This can harm your arteries.
- Birth control pills. Pills used for birth control (specifically those containing estrogen) and pregnancy can boost blood pressure.
- Cough, cold, and pain-relieving medications. These can temporarily raise blood pressure.
- Certain medications. Some drugs can constrict blood vessels, making it harder for the heart to pump blood.
- Illegal drugs. Cocaine and amphetamines can raise blood pressure.
Conclusion
To maintain healthy blood pressure levels, it’s essential to stay active, eat a balanced diet, and manage stress. Regular exercise, limiting alcohol, avoiding smoking, and eating foods rich in potassium can all help lower blood pressure. Talk with your doctor about how to manage your blood pressure and most importantly take a daily dosage of BGV Natural Zobo Mix