What Are the Health Risks of High Blood Pressure? – Why You Cannot Ignore This Disease
Few other conditions can top the health risks of high blood pressure. Known as the “Silent Killer”  HBP or hypertension has no outward symptoms until a major event such as a heart attack occurs. HBP kills 50, 000 Americans each year and contributes to another 300, 000 according to the American Heart Association.
The risks of high blood pressure are far too dangerous to ignore.
First, what is blood pressure? Blood pressure is the force exerted against the walls of the blood vessel when the heart pumps. Healthy blood vessels are elastic and can expand and contract to efficiently manage the high pressure when the heart pumps, and the lower pressure when it relaxes.
There are a variety of causes for high blood pressure but the basics are that the blood vessels become stiff or hardened and can no longer expand and contract as they once could.  Also, blockages may occur where fats have been absorbed by damaged cells creating plaque in the lining of the arteries.
The new studies indicate that HBP plays a role in:

Sexual Dysfunction In Men: It is normal for men older than 50 to have difficulty in getting and maintaining an erection (Erectile Dysfunction) but the condition is hastened if the man has HBP or hypertension as well. Blood vessels are hardened and partially clogged with plaque, limiting the blood flow. ED medications can actually worsen this condition and a man should always discuss his BP before getting prescriptions like Viagra.  Currently there is no connection between blood pressure and sexual dysfunction in women.

Bone Loss: One of the characteristics of HBP is the elimination of calcium through urination. This excessive drain of calcium can lead to a loss of bone density (osteoporosis). Lower bon density can lead to broken limbs and joints. This is particularly true for older women.
Knowing your blood pressure and controlling it should be a priority for anyone who wants to live a longer, healthier life.