Hypertension
<p><b>Hypertension: know your numbers</b></p>
<p><b>It’s vital to know your numbers</b></p>
<p> Do you know your blood pressure numbers?</p>
<p>Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, happens when your blood pressure goes past a certain level. This puts you at major risk for a range of health issues like heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and more.</p>
<p><b>Causes of hypertension</b></p>
<p>According to the South African Hypertension Society, at least four in 10 people older than age 25 have hypertension. The bad news: most people aren’t even aware of their blood pressure problem.</p>
<p><b>Common causes of high blood pressure include:</b></p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Excess salt in your diet.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Being overweight or obese.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Very little physical activity.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Excessive drinking and smoking could be factors as well.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Excess saturated fats in your diet.</p>
<p><b>The good numbers</b></p>
<p>Regular health check-ups will help your doctor monitor your blood pressure levels. The test is done using a blood pressure monitor and is relatively quick and simple.</p>
<p>If your blood pressure is below 120/80, you have normal, healthy blood pressure. If your blood pressure is less than 140/90 but above 120/80, you are at risk of becoming hypertensive.</p>
<p>If your blood pressure is above 140/90, you need treatment to help avoid heart disease and stroke.</p>
<p><b>Tips to keep blood pressure in check:</b></p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Eat a healthy and nutritious diet. Load up on green vegetables.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Drink lots of water.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Stop smoking.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Exercise regularly.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Cut out extra salt from your food.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Get tested at least once a year at your doctor.</p>
