Definition: High blood pressure is, by definition, a repeated elevated blood pressure exceeding 140 systolic (pressure in the arteries when the heart beats) and 90 diastolic (pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats).
General: High blood pressure is referred to as the silent killer. It goes undetected in many individuals. It is called the silent killer because there are usually no symptoms associated with this health issue. Left untreated, hypertension can lead to an increase in risk factors including heart attack, stroke, organ damage and regurgitation. Pre-high blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89 has been shown to increase risk factors. Stage 2 hypertension readings are in excess of 160/100 and severe hypertension is diagnosed when readings exceed 180/120.
Risk Factors: Being overweight, too much sodium (salt), lack of physical exercise, lack of potassium, excessive use of alcohol, smoking, stress, heredity, a high fat diet.
Exercise: Exercise can result in lowering the effects of high blood pressure. Regular physical exercise makes the heart stronger. A stronger heart can pump more blood with less effort. If the heart works less to pump blood, the force on arteries decreases, lowering blood pressure.
Although many forms of exercise lead to improved health, cardiovascular/aerobic training is highly recommended for the patient. Thirty minutes of aerobic activity most days of the week is recommended.
Other Considerations: Treatment usually consists of lifestyle changes that include regular exercise, a reduction in salt intake, and other dietary changes. Medications are often prescribed. When training these individuals the following should be considered: Avoid the Valsalva maneuver (holding of the breath during exertion), avoid using heavy resistance as this can cause a spike in blood pressure, avoid overhead resistance training, a two minute or longer slow cardiovascular cool down at the end of the workout should be mandatory for these individuals.