What are the risks for high blood pressure?

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common condition that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. The higher your blood pressure, the greater your risk of developing:

* Heart disease: High blood pressure can damage the arteries that supply blood to your heart, which can lead to heart attacks.

* Stroke: High blood pressure can also damage the arteries in your brain, which can lead to strokes.

* Kidney disease: High blood pressure can damage the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure.

* Vision loss: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, which can lead to vision loss.

* Erectile dysfunction: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the penis, which can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED).

* Dementia: High blood pressure can increase your risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.

* Peripheral artery disease: High blood pressure can damage the arteries in your legs, which can lead to peripheral artery disease (PAD).

The risk of developing these complications increases with the severity and duration of your high blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about your blood pressure and what you can do to reduce your risk of complications.