Blood Pressure
Hypertension
Your blood pressure is recorded as two figures, for example 120 over 80 (120/80). The top number is the pressure in the arteries when the heart squeezes blood out during each beat. The lower number is the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between each heartbeat.
Hypertension
High blood pressure (hypertension) increases your chance of developing heart disease, a stroke, blood vessel disease and other serious conditions. Generally, the higher the blood pressure, the greater the health risk. There are often no symptoms or signs of high blood pressure – you can have high blood pressure and feel well.
Statins and Heart Disease
Following on from the controversy caused by the ABC's Catalyst show, here are some facts from Australia's eminent Health Authority, The National Heart Foundation.
High Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the pressure of blood against blood vessel walls. We all need some blood pressure, called normal blood pressure, to stay alive, but blood pressure that is higher than normal can be dangerous. A healthy lifestyle helps keep blood pressure normal and certain medicines can help treat high blood pressure.
Measuring Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood in the arteries as it is pumped around the body by the heart. High blood pressure (hypertension) usually does not have symptoms, but can lead to serious health problems. It is a major risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke. Healthy eating and lifestyle changes can help to control high blood pressure.
