What Causes High Blood Pressure in Men

Studies have shown that men are more prone to developing high blood pressure than women, though it is not an uncommon phenomenon with women either. There are numerous causes of high blood pressure, some of which include an inactive, sedentary lifestyle, overpowered completely by stress. It is said that high blood pressure is a problem that becomes apparent with age; however, because of the kind of lifestyle we lead nowadays, younger men are also prone to developing blood pressure problems. Before we look at what causes high blood pressure in men, let's understand a little about blood pressure and how it affects us.

Blood pressure is the rate at which your heart pumps blood into the arteries, which is then carried to the rest of the body. When these arteries are constricted due to various reasons, it is then that the heart has to work much harder in being able to effectively provide the necessary blood supply to the body. This is what causes high blood pressure. While normal blood pressure levels stand at 120/80, dangerously high blood pressure levels can go beyond 160/100, and increase the risk of heart disease. If the blood pressure levels persistently remain above the normal figures, it is imperative that you visit your doctor and receive appropriate treatment for the same. With that said, you should also know that blood pressure can be prevented or reduced by taking some simple precautionary measures. Here's a look into why you may be suffering from high blood pressure.

Causes of High Blood Pressure in Men

As mentioned earlier, blood pressure is a problem not only in older men, but in younger men too, and there are way too many factors that can be accounted for when considering these high blood pressure levels.

• Genetics: One of the prime reasons and an uncontrollable factor that causes high blood pressure is heredity. Though you may be prone to developing high blood pressure, you can take care of your health and delay the onset of the problem. Further, if you take such measures, it is likely that the effects of high blood pressure will not be so intense on your body.
• Obesity: Obesity is rising even in the younger generation which is why now youngsters are as prone to developing blood pressure problems as the older generation. The prime reason for obesity is the lack of activity in our lives, and can also be attributed to genetics. High levels of fat in the body constrict the blood flow in the arteries, thereby increasing blood pressure levels.
• Excess Consumption of Salt: High levels of sodium in the body is known to increase blood pressure levels. Some bodies are sensitive to salt leading to elevated blood pressure. Large amounts of salt are found in processed and junk foods that have become a staple in our lives now. These foods contain more salt than our body requires. In some cases, even the medication one may be consuming may have high sodium levels.
• Age: As a person grows older, a natural occurrence in the body is the hardening of the arteries or what is medically known as 'arteriosclerosis'. As the arteries become less flexible, it becomes increasingly difficult for the blood to pass through them. In such cases, medication is the only way doctors help treat this condition. They may prescribe medication that slightly thins the blood so that it can pass more easily through the arteries.
• Stress: Stress manifests itself physically in numerous ways, and one of these is by resulting in high blood pressure. Physical stress, mental stress, worries about finances, payments, work, and family are some of the forces that lead a man into developing elevated levels of blood pressure and put him at a risk of heart disease.
• Other Health Conditions: High blood pressure can occur as a symptom of several other health problems. Conditions such as kidney disease, thyroid, or problems of the adrenal gland may result in high blood pressure.
• Smoking & Alcohol: Addiction to smoking or drinking will eventually become the causes of high blood pressure. Drinking more than two drinks a day can be one of the reasons one may develop this condition.

Preventing High Blood Pressure

By taking care of your health, you can prevent this condition from troubling you and leading to several other health problems.

• Make sure you get some form of physical activity at least three times a week. Go for a walk, a jog, or simply enroll in a class that will get you moving.
• Adopt a healthy diet and minimize your consumption of processed foods, caffeine, and other fattening foods.
• If you find yourself feeling stressed, indulge in some stress-relieving methods such as meditation, deep breathing, or any other activity that relaxes you.
• If you have found out that your blood pressure levels are high, make sure that you visit your doctor and receive the appropriate medication for the same. Follow the aforementioned steps in addition to the medication you are taking.

More often than not, men live with high blood pressure for years before it is diagnosed. This can cause the problem to worsen. As such, look out for symptoms such as lightheadedness, headaches, blurred vision, and fatigue. If they persist, get yourself checked to find out the cause for such symptoms. Do not attempt to diagnose yourself and get medical attention soon. Once you know the root cause of high blood pressure, simply by addressing or eliminating it, you will find yourself feeling much better.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and does not in any way attempt to replace the diagnosis of a doctor. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.