Middle Age Memory Problems Linked to High Blood Pressure

September 5th, 2009 · No Comments

Welcome back!

Memory problems are an issue as we age, and we are always on the lookout for new information that may help us in our later years. A recent study in Neurology, the American Academy of Neurology’s medical journal, addresses the relationship between memory problems and high blood pressure.

Research indicates when the diastolic blood pressure reading, the bottom number, is high people are more likely to have memory problems and trouble with their thinking skills than those with a normal diastolic reading.

According to recent studies a high diastolic reading means there is a weakening of the small arteries in the brain. The result can lead to small areas of brain damage.

Treating high blood pressure can possibly prevent memory problems that can lead to dementia.

Blood Pressure Readings

By definition, blood pressure is the force of the body’s blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. Every time the heart beats, it pumps blood into the arteries.

The upper number of a blood pressure reading, called the systolic pressure, indicates when the heart is beating, pumping the blood. The diastolic pressure indicates when the heart is at rest, between beats, when the pressure falls.

Therefore, the blood pressure reading indicates when the heart beats, and when the heart is at rest. The numbers are typically written one above the other.

What the Numbers Mean

A reading of

120/80 or lower indicates a normal blood pressure
140/90 or higher is considered high blood pressure
120 to 139 over 80 to 89 indicates prehypertension

There are no symptoms for high blood pressure, however the condition can cause serious problems such as heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure.

Recent studies show there are a growing number of Americans who have hypertension. The good news is more people are being treated for hypertension and living longer lives.

High blood pressure can be controlled by living a healthy lifestyle and taking prescribed medications if deemed necessary by a health care provider.

Next time you visit your health care provider, have your blood pressure checked. Risk factors include age, gender (sorry men), family history, and race. African-Americans have a tendency for higher blood pressure.

Don’t let the lack of symptoms fool you. Pay attention to your blood pressure and prevent health complications and memory problems later in your life.