Heart Disease and High Blood Pressure

What Is the connection between high blood pressure and heart disease?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is one of the leading causes of heart disease. This condition places excessive strain on the arteries, leading to the buildup of fat, cholesterol and plaque along their walls. This buildup narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow. When blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is completely blocked, a heart attack occurs.

Understanding and managing high blood pressure is essential for reducing your risk of heart disease and related health conditions like heart failure.

Blood pressure categories

According to the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, blood pressure is categorized as follows (measured in millimeters of mercury, mm Hg):

• Normal blood pressure (ideal): Less than 120/80 mm Hg
• Elevated blood pressure: Systolic (top number) between 120–129 mm Hg, and diastolic (bottom number) below 80 mm Hg
• Stage 1 hypertension: Systolic between 130–139 mm Hg or diastolic between 80–89 mm Hg
• Stage 2 hypertension: Systolic of 140 mm Hg or higher, or diastolic of 90 mm Hg or higher

A reading of 180/120 mm Hg or higher is considered a hypertensive crisis and requires immediate medical attention.

Regular monitoring is key to understanding your blood pressure levels. Be proactive - get your blood pressure checked regularly, especially if you have risk factors for hypertension.  

What are the signs and symptoms of high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is often called a “silent killer” because it may not cause symptoms until it becomes severe. The only way to detect it early is through regular checkups.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your health care provider immediately:

• Severe headache
• Fatigue or confusion
• Vision problems
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or a pounding sensation in your chest, neck, or ears
• Irregular heartbeat
• Blood in urine

These symptoms can indicate dangerously high blood pressure or other serious health conditions. 

What causes high blood pressure?

High blood pressure can have different causes, categorized as primary or secondary hypertension:

• Primary hypertension: The most common type, often developing gradually without an identifiable cause.
• Secondary hypertension: Caused by an underlying condition such as:
  • Kidney problems
  • Adrenal gland tumors
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Congenital blood vessel defects
  • Medications (e.g., decongestants, birth control pills) or illegal drugs

Identifying the cause is essential to creating an effective treatment plan. 

How is high blood pressure treated?

Treatment for high blood pressure often begins with lifestyle changes, which can help manage and even reduce hypertension. Consider the following strategies:

• Regular exercise
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress
• Reducing caffeine intake
• Following a balanced diet rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium
• Cutting out refined carbs and added sugars

In some cases, medications may be necessary. Common options include:

• Diuretics
• Calcium channel blockers
• Beta-blockers
• Renin inhibitors
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)

Your health care provider will tailor treatment to your specific health needs. 

How do I prevent high blood pressure?

Preventing high blood pressure involves adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Get regular exercise
• Eat a balanced diet low in sodium and high in nutrient-rich foods
• Reduce stress through mindfulness or relaxation techniques
• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol consumption

It’s also helpful to regularly monitor your blood pressure at home using a reliable device. Early detection and consistent management can help you avoid complications like heart failure or other serious health conditions.

When to seek help

High blood pressure is manageable, but it’s important to stay informed and proactive. Regular checkups and blood pressure monitoring are vital, especially if you have symptoms or risk factors. Banner Health’s expert cardiologists can help you assess your condition, identify underlying causes and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Take charge of your health today by scheduling a blood pressure check with a Banner Health provider.