Problems of High Blood Pressure

A doctor determines blood pressure by the amount of blood that the heart pumps against the resistance to which the blood flows in the arteries. People often have high blood pressure for a number of years before the first symptom appears. Regular check-ups with your physician can keep track of changes in blood pressure, and if hypertension is detected, it is easily treated with medication.

Atherosclerosis

• High blood pressure left untreated can cause atherosclerosis, a condition that hardens and thickens the arteries. Over time a heart attack or stroke can occur.

Aneurysm

• Hypertension can weaken vessels, causing them to bulge and form an aneurysm. An aneurysm can rupture and become life-threatening.

Congestive Heart Failure

• The heart has to work overtime, so blood can flow through the weakened vessels within the body. Over time the heart muscles thicken and begin having a hard time pumping blood through the body, which leads to congestive heart failure.

Stroke

• High blood pressure can affect the arteries leading to the brain and can slow blood flow or cause the vessel to rupture, resulting in a stroke.

Kidney Failure

• Weakened blood vessels around the kidneys prevent the kidneys from functioning as they should. Eventually, this can lead to kidney failure if high blood pressure is not treated.