• Diastolic - the pressure against the arteries as the heart relaxes and fills with blood. The normal diastolic pressure is usually between 70 and 80 mm Hg.

Most people with hypertension feel okay: - Hypertension

Hypertension usually does not produce any symptoms, because the organs of the body can resist high blood pressure for a long time. That's why it's important to have regular medical examinations to make sure your blood pressure isn't creeping up as you grow older. High blood pressure over a period of time can contribute to many illnesses, including:

• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease
• Stroke.

An unhealthy lifestyle can cause hypertension:

Factors which can contribute to high blood pressure include:

• Hereditary factors
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Salty diet
• Heavy drinking
• Kidney disease.

The effects of high blood pressure on the arteries are worsened by:

• Cigarette smoking
• High levels of saturated fat Food
• High blood cholesterol
• Diabetes.

Responses to some types of stress may affect both blood pressure and changes in the arteries..