What is happening in your body if you have high blood pressure?
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) occurs when the force of blood against the walls of your arteries consistently remains elevated. Below is a breakdown of the process:
1. Narrowed Arteries: Arteries, which carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the body, can become narrower due to a build-up of fatty deposits (plaque), a condition called atherosclerosis. As the arteries narrow, the resistance to blood flow increases.
2. Increased Blood Volume: In some cases, high blood pressure can also result from an increased volume of blood flowing through the arteries. This can occur due to certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease or hyperthyroidism, or excessive salt intake.
3. Increased Heart Rate: When the heart beats faster, it pumps out more blood with each beat. This can temporarily raise your blood pressure. However, sustained high blood pressure usually involves both an increased heart rate and increased resistance to blood flow.
4. Kidney Function: Healthy kidneys help regulate blood pressure by balancing fluid and electrolyte levels in the body. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, they may not be able to remove sufficient sodium from the body, which can lead to fluid retention and increased blood volume, further elevating blood pressure.
5. Hormonal Imbalances: Some hormones, such as adrenaline (epinephrine), can cause blood pressure to rise temporarily. In people with chronic high blood pressure, there may be underlying hormonal imbalances that contribute to the condition.
6. Genetic Factors: Genetics also play a role in blood pressure regulation. Certain genes may influence how the body responds to sodium, renin (a hormone that helps control blood pressure), or other factors that affect blood pressure.
It's important to note that high blood pressure often doesn't have any noticeable symptoms and can only be detected through blood pressure measurements. Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial for early detection and appropriate management to reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems.