Hypertension is a common disorder of the circulatory system, affecting around one in seven adult Australians and becoming more common with age. Older people may experience a change in their blood pressure pattern due to their arteries becoming more rigid (less elastic). Hypertension usually does not produce any symptoms, because the organs of the body can resist high blood pressure for a long time.
Some of the factors which can contribute to high blood pressure include: hereditary factors, obesity, lack of exercise, a diet high in salt, heavy drinking and kidney disease.
The effects of high blood pressure on the arteries are worsened by: cigarette smoking, high levels of saturated fat in the diet, high blood cholesterol and diabetes.
Dr Velibor Todorovic told us about the causes, symptoms and treatment aspects of the hypertension consequences.
