Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of arteries. Blood pressure is analyzed in two terms as systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. A blood pressure measurement of 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) is expressed verbally as "120 over 80." Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg. Blood pressure more than this 120/80 mm is termed as high blood pressure. High blood pressure is common. Nearly 65 million Americans are getting treated for this condition. African Americans are more prone to high BP. Sometimes overweight, those with family history of high blood pressure, and those with pre-hypertension predisposes to High blood pressure.

The great arteries of the body behave somewhat like the balloon. They are stretched when the heart contracts, and by 'springing back' after the heartbeat, they cause the blood to remain under pressure. The blood is the only medium, which carries oxygen and all other nutrients to all parts of the body. Hence the steady flow of blood is imperative for all functions of the cell and its survival.

Regardless of race, age, or gender, anyone can develop high blood pressure. It is estimated that one in every four American adults has high blood pressure. Once high blood pressure develops, it usually lasts a lifetime. You can prevent and control high blood pressure by taking action. The causes of high blood pressure vary. Causes may include narrowing of the arteries, a greater than normal volume of blood, or the heart beating faster or more forcefully than it should. Any of these conditions will cause increased pressure against the artery walls.

Excess weight is a large factor in high blood pressure. Though many people who are not obese suffer from the condition, it