DHAKA: Heart ailments like heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases claim approximately 80% lives in low and middle income countries, according to a global brief on hypertension published by World Health Organization.

So what contributes to such a large mortality rate owing to heart disease? Doctors and research point to the incidence of abnormally high pressure in the arteries of the patients involved. Dr. Sharukh Golwala, Cardiologist at Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai helps us understand the causes that lead to high blood pressure.

While specific causes are unknown, here are some of the risk factors that can contribute to developing high blood pressure. Read on to protect yourself and your family.

1: Age

The older you are the greater are the chances of being a victim of high blood pressure. Elderly people are especially at a higher risk of developing elevated systolic readings.

The risk is due to hardening of the arteries.

2: Hereditary

If there is a family history of high cholesterol, then maybe it is a reason for you to start worrying.

This inherited form of high blood pressure may lead to health problems at an early age.

3: Gender

Men, beware! Dr. Golwala says - men have greater chances of developing high blood pressure than women.

That doesn't mean women don't have to worry, you too are at a high risk as well. So mind your lifestyle and eating habits.

4: Extra weight

Extra weight or obesity can be one of the leading causes of high blood pressure, but it varies from person to person.

People who have fat storage around their belly, hip and thighs are also at a risk of developing high blood pressure. Maintain your weight!

5: Salt sensitivity

Some people are sensitive against salt or sodium intake, which makes their blood pressure to rise.

If you are sensitive to salt, then the only option to stay safe is by reducing the intake. Be very cautious while using salt in your food, and read labels before having any processed food.

Fast foods have a great level of salt in them, so use your discretion while having it.

6: Alcohol consumption

If you get intoxicated with just two drinks then it is an indicator that you should stop drinking. Heavy alcohol consumption is bad for you and your well being.

Hence, avoid heavy consumption of alcohol to keep your blood pressure normal.

7: Stress life

Your extra tensed everyday during your office hours or due to other reasons, this can spike your blood pressure.

Back off from your stressful situation, stay calm and relax yourself. Job stress is one of the worst things for your health.

8: Contraceptives

In a recent study, it was noted that regular consumption of birth control pills or oral contraceptives have a higher risk of developing high blood pressure.

9: Lazy life

Your lazy couch potato life will not only expand your waist line, but it will also put you at high risk of developing high blood pressure.

Get off that couch and hit the gym or get into any other form of physical activity that interests you.

It could be your favorite sport or just walking to work, if possible.

Wondering how physical activity will lower your risk of high blood pressure, then here is the answer: being active helps to open up the blood vessel which helps keep the pressure in the veins and arteries in the normal range.

10: Constant popping of pills

Some medicines which are used to treat cold or allergy symptoms can spike your blood pressure.

Always consult your doctor before having any medicine and inform him of your medical history to avoid complications.

Source: The Times of India

BDST: 2119 HRS, JUL 06, 2014