The following can increase your chances of developing high blood pressure.
Age The risk of high blood pressure increases as you age; the older you are, the more likely you are to develop high blood pressure. Blood vessels gradually lose their elasticity over time, which can contribute to high blood pressure.
Race High blood pressure is more common in Black American adults than in white, Asian, or Hispanic American adults. This is most likely due to systemic issues, like access to healthy food, environmental exposure, and genetic susceptibility.
Family History Having a family history of high blood pressure increases your risk, as the condition tends to run in families.
Weight Obesity stresses your blood vessels and can often lead to high blood pressure.
Physical Activity People who aren’t active tend to have a higher heart rate and higher blood pressure than those who are physically active. Not exercising also increases the risk of being overweight.
Diet What you choose to eat (or not eat) can increase your risk of hypertension. For example, getting too much salt or too little potassium can raise blood pressure.
Pregnancy Being pregnant can cause an increase in blood pressure. High blood pressure occurs in 5 to 10 percent of pregnant people.
Read the full article here
