Final answer:
High blood pressure or hypertension is categorized by a consistent blood pressure measurement of 130/80 mm Hg or higher according to new guidelines, and it can lead to serious health complications. It typically has no symptoms, so it must be measured for a diagnosis, and it can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is diagnosed when a person's systolic blood pressure is consistently 140 or higher, and/or their diastolic blood pressure is 90 or higher. However, new guidelines suggest that hypertension should be treated when blood pressure is 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Contrary to some misconceptions, high blood pressure cannot be detected just by looking at a person; it is often known as the "silent killer" because it typically does not cause symptoms. Hypertension is indeed a serious condition that can lead to potentially fatal complications like heart attacks, strokes, aneurysms, and chronic kidney disease. Treatment for high blood pressure includes lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, as well as medication.