High blood pressure affects millions of people throughout the world. The incidence of high blood pressure continues to rise. Responsible factors include stressful living, inappropriate diets, obesity, nicotine and alcohol use.
Patients with hypertension frequently have no symptoms; therefore, it has been referred to as the “Silent Killer”. It is usually found on a routine office visit or annual examination.
Blood pressure below 120 over 80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) is considered optimal for adults. A systolic pressure of 120 to 139 mmHg or a diastolic pressure of 80 to 89 mmHg is considered “prehypertension” and should to be observed carefully. A blood pressure reading of 140 over 90 or higher is considered elevated (high).