Why Is My Diastolic Blood Pressure Value High?

There are two numbers associated with blood pressure: systolic and diastolic. The systolic represents pressure when the heart contracts and pushes blood through arteries. The diastolic is pressure when the heart expands, drawing blood into the heart's chambers. There are many reasons why the diastolic number could be high.

Genetics

• Genetics often play a role in high blood pressure.

  A high diastolic number may be hereditary. If your parents, aunts, uncles, siblings or any other immediate family members have high blood pressure, you may be susceptible as well.

Diet

• Eat low-sodium foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, to avoid high blood pressure.

  A diet high in sodium can be a serious aggravating factor for high blood pressure. Avoid eating foods high in sodium, including canned meats, canned vegetables and TV dinners. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains and lean sources of protein, including fish and chicken.

Sedentary Lifestyle

• Being active can help reduce high blood pressure.

  A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to a high diastolic number. If you are not physically active, this can cause high blood pressure. To keep blood pressure low, the American Heart Association recommends engaging in at least 30 minutes of activity, five days a week.

Obesity

• Obesity can contribute to high blood pressure.

  Obesity and being overweight are closely related to elevated blood pressure. Medical professionals recommend that you be within 15% or less of your healthy body weight. Your health care provider can calculate your individual range of healthy body weight.

Disease

• In approximately 10% of all high blood pressure cases, a disease is the precursor. This could be thyroid disorders, kidney disease, adrenal disease or alcohol addiction. Even pregnancy or use of birth control pills can increase the likelihood of high blood pressure.