High blood pressure: What is raising blood pressure? How to know if you are at risk

High blood pressure is a condition in which the blood pressure in the body is too high.

If the blood pressure is high, it must be controlled because otherwise the blood vessels in the service of the organs could be subjected to additional tension.

This can lead to serious health problems, such as heart attacks and strokes.

The cause of hypertension is not always clear, but some things can increase the risk.

What are the risk factors that can lead to high blood pressure?

According to the NHS, among the factors that may increase the risk of developing high blood pressure include a diet high in salt, overweight and insufficient physical activity.

Regularly drinking large amounts of alcohol, smoking and suffering from prolonged sleep deprivation may also increase the risk.

In addition, people with a family history of the disease and those of African or Caribbean descent also have a higher risk.

To reduce the risk of high blood pressure, it can be helpful to change one's lifestyle.

"One can often prevent or reduce high blood pressure by eating healthy, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, drinking alcohol in moderation and not smoking," said the NHS.

The UK guidelines recommend not to consume more than 6g of salt per day, which is equivalent to about a teaspoonful.

A diet low in fat, rich in fiber (eg wholegrain rice, bread and pasta), as well as many fruits and vegetables, also helps to lower blood pressure.

As far as alcohol is concerned, the UK guidelines advise against regular drinking of more than 14 units per week.

It is also advisable to spread the consumption of alcohol over three days or more if you drink up to 14 units a week.

In about one in 20 cases, high blood pressure occurs as a result of a disease, a drug or an underlying drug.

The diseases that can cause high blood pressure include kidney disease, diabetes, long-term kidney infections and lupus.

Hormonal problems, such as an overactive or underactive thyroid, and obstructive sleep apnea can also cause hypertension.

Medications and medications that can increase blood pressure include the combined oral contraceptive pill, steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.

Some antidepressants and over-the-counter cough and cold remedies can also cause an increase in blood pressure.

In these cases, your blood pressure may return to normal once you stop taking the medicine or medication.