On an ordinary afternoon, Mr. Li, a middle-aged professional who often works overtime late into the night, suddenly felt flustered and short of breath and was rushed to the hospital. The results of the examination showed that his blood pressure was well above normal. This shocking incident not only made Mr. Li start to re-examine his lifestyle, but also sounded the alarm bell for us. High blood pressure, known as the "killer in life", is quietly threatening the health of many people. 
Hypertension is not only a disease, it is also an important factor leading to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications. And these complications will undoubtedly seriously affect our quality of life, and even threaten lives. But what exactly causes high blood pressure? And how can we effectively prevent and control this health hazard? Is it just a matter of lifestyle habits, or do we carry the "seed" of high blood pressure in our genes? Today, as a cardiologist, I'm going to share with you what causes high blood pressure, the role of genetics in it, and offer some practical tips for prevention and management. Let's start by understanding the daily manifestations of high blood pressure, demystifying it step by step, and finding effective ways to protect the health of ourselves and our families. Lifestyle: Silent Catalyst for High Blood Pressure High blood pressure does not develop overnight, but is the result of a combination of factors, in which poor lifestyle habits occupy a dominant role. The dietary preference for high-salt, high-fat foods directly pushes up the number of blood pressure monitors, which is especially common in modern society. At the same time, lack of exercise has become another booster for the formation of high blood pressure, and sitting still leads to a decrease in the body's blood circulation efficiency, which accumulates in the long term and forms a hidden danger of rising blood pressure. In addition to diet and exercise, psychological stress is also a factor that cannot be ignored. Studies have shown that people who are chronically stressed produce more stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can cause tension in blood vessels and increase blood pressure. Genetic code: The driving force behind hypertensionGenetics plays a non-negligible role in the formation of hypertension. If there is a family member with high blood pressure, the risk of developing high blood pressure in future generations is significantly higher than in the general population. Scientific studies have revealed that genetic factors account for about 30%-50% of the incidence of hypertension, which means that hypertension is closely related to our genes. Due to genetic differences, different populations may become the genetic basis of hypertension due to differences in vascular elasticity and sodium excretion capacity. However, genetics is not predestined. Even if there is a family history of hypertension, the risk of hypertension can still be effectively reduced through active lifestyle modifications, such as a reasonable diet, regular exercise, and good stress management. This brings hope to people who are worried about their high risk due to genetics. Nutritional balance, less salt and less fat, patients with hypertension need to pay attention to the quality of diet and adhere to the principle of low-salt and low-fat diet. Salt intake should not exceed 5 grams per day to reduce the risk of rising blood pressure. It is recommended to eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas and potatoes to help control sodium levels in the body. Increasing dietary fiber intake, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, can help with blood pressure management. Avoid excessive intake of animal fats and choose high-quality proteins such as fish and lean meats**. Increasing physical activity and exercising regularly and moderately are essential to lower blood pressure. It is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Increasing muscle strength training is also beneficial for blood pressure control. Not only does exercise help maintain a healthy weight, but it also improves cardiovascular function and lowers blood pressure. Psychological adjustment and decompression of life stress are a non-negligible cause of hypertension. Learning effective stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga, can help lower blood pressure. Maintain a positive and optimistic attitude, participate in social and family activities appropriately, and avoid being in a high-pressure environment for a long time. 
Regular blood pressure monitoring, timely detection of abnormal hypertension patients should regularly measure blood pressure at home, record and monitor blood pressure changes. The correct measurement is to sit and rest for 5 minutes and then use a calibrated blood pressure monitor. Have a professional blood pressure assessment at least once a year to detect abnormal changes in blood pressure in a timely manner. Follow your doctor's instructions and use your medications wiseWhen lifestyle modifications are not effective in controlling blood pressure, your doctor may recommend medications**. Patients should strictly follow the doctor's guidance in using the drug, and should not increase or decrease the dose or stop the drug on their own. Be aware of the possibility of medications*** and communicate with your doctor in case of problems. 
Establish good communication with doctorsMaintain regular communication with doctors, and provide timely feedback on the results and physical changes. Under the guidance of your doctor, you may need to adjust your ** regimen to achieve optimal blood pressure control. Don't hide your illness or self-adjust your plan, open and honest communication is the key to success.