High blood pressure is a common disease experienced by most adults. It is defined by a blood pressure reading >130/80. One in every three adult Americans have hypertension. Over half of all Americans age 60 and older suffer from high blood pressure. Typically, blood pressure increases with age. Risk of high blood pressure begins to climb when people hit age 45, although it can occur in younger people. African American people tend to develop it younger and have more severe hypertension. Obesity or a family history of high blood pressure also increases risk. High blood pressure is especially dangerous because people can have it for years without knowing. Hypertension forces the heart to work far beyond its capacity. Along with injuring blood vessels, it can damage your brain, eyes and kidneys People who have readings of 130/80 or higher on at least two occasions are said to have high blood pressure
If yours is 180/120 or higher, get medical attention right away.