Every 33 seconds, cardiovascular disease kills someone in the United States. With heart disease being one of the leading causes of death in American adults, staying cautious of risk factors is essential to protecting your heart and your life. High blood pressure is a significant risk factor that’s often missed because it doesn’t always have noticeable symptoms. Monitoring your blood pressure and reducing your risk factors for developing high blood pressure is essential in the fight for cardiovascular disease prevention.
Undiagnosed High Blood Pressure: A Stealthy Contributor to Cardiovascular Disease
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a silent, hidden signifier of cardiovascular disease. Since this condition is silent, it’s crucial to understand your risk factors and monitor for high blood pressure. Imaging tests for at-risk individuals are helpful, as are regular appointments with a cardiovascular health specialist. Being proactive is the only way to fight the silent killer.
There are numerous risk factors for high blood pressure, some modifiable and others simply a part of who you are. Some of the most significant contributors include:
- Genetics
- Age (risk increases as you get older)
- Being a man under 64
- Being a woman 65+
- Race (black people are more prone to high blood pressure)
- Having other particular health problems
- Eating an unhealthy diet that’s high in sodium
- Lack of exercise
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Severe or ongoing stress
The Silent Killer: Understanding the Impact of High Blood Pressure on Cardiovascular Health
High blood pressure is often symptomless, so many people live with this condition without even knowing it. Regular checkups on your blood pressure are crucial if you have one or more risk factors listed above. Since there aren’t often symptoms, checking your blood pressure is the only way to truly know if you do or don’t have this condition.
But why does high blood pressure present a risk to your cardiovascular health?
Over time, high blood pressure can cause damage to your arteries and make them less elastic. In turn, a lack of elasticity decreases blood flow (and oxygen) to your heart. Inadequate flow of blood and oxygen can lead to heart disease, along with other problems like heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney disease, and even dementia (later in life).
Take Control of Your Heart Health: Visit South Tampa Cardiology for Cardiology Care and Preventative Health Services
High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because the signs and symptoms aren’t always obvious. But, the complications of this condition are wide-ranging and serious.
If you’re concerned about your heart health and want preventative care, consider visiting South Tampa Cardiology for specialized cardiac care and comprehensive preventative health services in Tampa — including help to lower blood pressure, if needed. Take charge of your well-being today and prioritize your cardiovascular health by scheduling an appointment with South Tampa Cardiology.