How does high blood pressure affect the heart functions? What about the chances of having a heart attack?
2007-02-06 04:33:26 · 3 answers · asked by leanna c 1 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Heart Diseases
When the heart beats, it pumps blood to the arteries and creates pressure in them. This pressure (blood pressure) results from two forces. The first force (systolic) is created as blood pumps into the arteries and through the circulatory system. The second (diastolic) is created as the arteries resist the blood flow.
The reason blood pressure impacts the heart's functionality is because an increase in pressure - increases the work load of the heart. Not only can this condition increase the size of the heart, but it can also (adversely) impact other body systems and internal organs.
The three main causes for high blood pressure (hypertension) are: 1. Kidney abnormalities 2. A structural abnormality of the aorta (large blood vessel leaving the heart) existing since birth. and 3. (most commonly) a Narrowing of certain arteries.
The third cause listed is the most significant - because it directly relates to a condition that effects the flexibility of arteries and capillaries. As such - blood flow may be restricted to areas of the brain (stroke) and proper oxygen delivery to the heart (myocardial infraction).
Luckily, High blood pressure can be managed through diet and exercise - as well as medication.
2007-02-06 04:59:38 · answer #1 · answered by bmwest 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
High blood pressure leades to heart attack...i think
2007-02-06 12:41:53 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
high bloodpressure can not just lead to heartattacks but also to strokes. if the heart has to pump harder and faster to get the needed supply to all organs and if there is blockages it can lead to both.
2007-02-06 12:44:21 · answer #3 · answered by germanygirl_us 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋