Your blood pressure is second only to your cholesterol level in importance as a risk factor for heart disease. The problem with high blood pressure is that millions of people have it and don't know it because they experience no symptoms. That's why it is very important to see your doctor regularly. Measuring your blood pressure correctly and knowing what your blood pressure is over time are also very important.
If you're one of the few people who do pay attention to their blood pressure, however, you'll also know that it's one of the most difficult risk factors to control, and even influence. That's because we frequently don't know what causes high blood pressure in the first place.
We do know that lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress play a key role, so managing these aspects of your life will go a long way toward reducing your risk.