You may already know high blood pressure or hypertension is one of the leading risk factors for heart attack and stroke, but do you know why? The heart and blood vessels together form the cardiovascular system, and a defect in either one is bound to affect the other. The following information can help you learn about what blood pressure is and how high blood pressure can affect your cardiovascular health.

Understanding blood pressure

Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels. When you have your blood pressure checked, you’ll notice that the measurement is given as two separate numbers, 110/70 for instance. The top number refers to the pressure in your arteries when your heart is pumping (systolic pressure). The lower number refers to the pressure in your arteries when the heart is resting (diastolic). Blood pressure changes throughout the day, depending on your activity, stress level and other factors. High blood pressure usually is defined as a blood pressure greater than 140/90 that fails to come down regardless of your activity.

A problem without symptoms

High blood pressure virtually has no noticeable side effects in its early stage. That’s why everyone should have their blood pressure checked annually (if the results are normal) or every few months (if the results are borderline or high). Sadly, all too often the first "sign" of high blood pressure or hypertension is a heart attack, stroke or kidney problem, which is why this disease is referred to as "the silent killer."

Effects on the heart

When blood pressure is too high and remains that way, the arterial walls become weakened and more prone to atherosclerosis (a buildup of fatty substances on the inner walls of the arteries). The heart must then work harder to pump oxygenated blood through the clogged arteries. The clogged arteries also are more prone to blood clots that can block the flow of blood entirely. Excess blood pressure also can cause arteries to bulge (aneurysm) or burst (hemorrhage).

Controlling your blood pressure

The first step to control your blood pressure is regular blood pressure checks. If you’re diagnosed as having high blood pressure, follow your physician’s instructions faithfully. Your treatment plan may include exercise and diet recommendations as well as medications to lower blood pressure if needed. If medications are prescribed, it is very important that you take them as prescribed and follow up with your physician with any issues or concerns.

James Dwyer, M.D., interventional cardiologist, is the medical director of the Heart & Vascular Center of Northern Arizona. For more information on cardiovascular health or to make an appointment with a world-class physician at the Heart & Vascular Center of Northern Arizona call 928 877-WELL or visit NAHeartCare.com.