what causes high blood pressure in men
What Causes High Blood Pressure in Men
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is more likely to affect men than women. This article tries to explore the reasons behind the same.
Studies have shown that men are more prone to high blood pressure than women though it is not an uncommon phenomenon with women either. The risk of hypertension increases with age; however, unhealthy lifestyle and improper eating habits have made younger men also vulnerable to this condition.
Overview
Blood pressure is the rate at which your heart pumps blood into the arteries, which is then carried to the rest of the body. When these arteries are constricted due to various reasons, the heart has to work much harder to effectively supply blood to all parts of the body. This increases the blood pressure. While normal blood pressure levels stand at 120/80, excessively high blood pressure levels can go beyond 160/100, and increase the risk of heart disease.
Causes
There are numerous causes of this condition in men:
- Genetics: One of the prime reasons and an uncontrollable factor that causes high blood pressure is heredity. Though you may be prone to this condition, you can take care of your health and delay the onset of the problem.
- Obesity: Obesity is one of the biggest contributors to this condition. The prime reason for obesity is the lack of physical activity, and can also be attributed to genetics. High levels of fat in the body constrict the blood flow in the arteries, and thereby increase the blood pressure.
- Excess Consumption of Salt: High levels of sodium in the body is responsible to elevate the blood pressure levels. Large amounts of salt are found in processed and junk foods. These foods contain more salt than your body requires. In some cases, even certain medications may have high sodium levels.
- Age: As a person grows older, hardening of the arteries occur (arteriosclerosis). As the arteries become less flexible, it becomes increasingly difficult for the blood to pass through them. In such cases, medication is the only way doctors help treat this condition. They may prescribe medication that slightly thins the blood so that it can pass more easily through the arteries.
- Stress: Physical stress, mental stress, worries about finances, payments, work, and family are some of the forces that lead a man into developing elevated levels of blood pressure and increase the risk of a heart disease.
- Other Health Conditions: Hypertension may occur as a symptom of several other health problems. Conditions such as kidney disease, thyroid problem, or problems of the adrenal gland may also contribute to this condition.
- Smoking and Alcohol: Addiction to smoking or drinking is also a contributing factor to this condition.
- Make sure you get some form of physical activity at least three times a week. Go for a walk, a jog, or simply enroll in a class that will get you moving.
- Adopt a healthy diet and minimize your consumption of processed foods, caffeine, and other fattening foods.
- If you find yourself feeling stressed, indulge in some stress-relieving methods such as meditation, deep breathing, or any other activity that relaxes you.
- If you have found out that your blood pressure levels are high, make sure that you visit your doctor and receive the appropriate medication for the same. Follow the aforementioned steps in addition to the medication you are taking.