Effects of High Blood Pressure on your body

1. High blood pressure is a state in which your blood pressure is greater than 130/80. The normal range of blood pressure is 120/80 or a little lower. High blood pressure is also called hypertension. Doctors define high blood pressure as a condition where your blood travels through the arteries (blood vessels) with greater force than usual. Uncontrolled hypertension can cause various effects on your body. This may include the following. Damage to the Arteries Damaged arteries: Usually, healthy arteries are elastic and strong. Their inner lining is quite flexible so that the flow of blood remains smooth. High blood pressure, however, increases the blood flow in your arteries which leads to the accumulation of fats in the walls. As a result, the arteries become damaged and narrow. Internal bleeding: Sometimes, constant blood pressure in the weakened arteries gives rise to the formation of a bulge. It is known as an aneurysm. This can cause internal bleeding that can be life-threatening. Damage to the Central Nervous System Stroke: Your brain works on a healthy supply of blood. But, high blood pressure can disrupt this and cause blood clots or hardness in the arteries. This increases the risk of ministrokes. In severe cases, people may also experience full-blown strokes.

2. Dementia: Narrowed blood vessels increase the chance of disruption of the blood flow. The limited flow of blood in the brain can lead to problems like impaired ability to think and make decisions. Damage to the Kidneys Your kidneys are responsible for filtering excess waste from your blood. If the blood pressure is high, the damage caused to your blood vessels will spread to the kidneys. This is why sometimes excess fluid and waste get built up in the body and can lead to kidney failure. Plus, several studies have found that high blood pressure and cancer of the kidney, colorectal, and breast also have a positive association and you may require cancer medication. Sexual Dysfunction The ability to maintain an erection for sexual intercourse decreases in men with age (more than 50 years commonly). This can also be a consequence of high blood pressure since lack of blood flow in the penis can lead to sexual dysfunction. In women, hypertension can cause a decreased sex drive, difficulty achieving an orgasm, vaginal dryness, etc. See a Doctor If you have a high blood pressure reading of 180/110 or close, you must see a doctor immediately before your condition worsens. Moreover, if your BP numbers are 140/90 or higher for a long time or frequently, ask your doctor about the same and start the right medications as soon as possible. Source: http://writeus.me/effects-of-high-blood-pressure-on-your-body/