Hypertension FAQS

Your heart pumps blood around your body. Blood pressure is the force of blood against your artery walls as it circulates through your body. This force is necessary to make the blood flow, delivering energy throughout your body. However, high blood pressure, also called hypertension, means there is too much pressure in your arteries.

High blood pressure is one of the leading health problems in Canada. It causes strokes, heart attacks, heart failure and kidney failure. It is also related to dementia and sexual problems. Finding and treating high blood pressure early helps prevent these problems.

When sitting still, a normal resting heart rate is usually between 60-100 bpm. This can be accelerated by caffeine consumption or physical activity.

High blood pressure happens to be the main cause of heart attacks, heart failure and strokes. Knowing your blood pressure and managing it can be the most effective means of prevention.