Blood Pressure Trivia

all of the above. Over time, high blood pressure can cause your arteries to thicken or harden. This can lead to heart attack or stroke. Untreated high blood pressure can also lead to dementia as the arteries supplying blood to the vessels in your brain become blocked.

sodium. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Even a small reduction in the sodium in your diet can reduce blood pressure by 2 to 8 mm Hg.” While Harvard Health Publication states that consuming calcium, magnesium, and potassium regularly is helpful for good blood pressure management. Read more about the top foods rich in essential minerals.

False. Having a blood pressure reading of 120/80 is actually considered pre-hypertension (early stage high blood pressure) by the American Heart Association (AHA). Optimal blood pressure readings should be less than 120/80.

E, all of the above. All of the listed risk factors can lead to a person developing high blood pressure. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and not smoking can help reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure and can help manage the condition if you’ve already been diagnosed. Sleep apnea can also lead to high blood pressure. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, visit your physician.

True. The American Heart Association notes that untreated high blood pressure can lead to damage of all of the blood vessels in the body, including those in your eyes, which can cause vision loss. They also note that damage to the arteries leading to your kidneys can affect the ability of the kidneys to properly filter blood.
Being aware of your blood pressure readings will help you actively manage your health. Knowing the risks, working with your physician, and taking the appropriate actions to lower your blood pressure and keep it within a healthy range is essential to your good health.