Is Your Job Causing High Blood Pressure?
Most of us face some sort of stress as a result of our jobs. Long hours, high pressure work environments, demanding bosses or clients, and general job dissatisfaction are all a part of everyday life, but the accumulation of the stress you deal with in your work environment can have a detrimental effect on your health. In terms of job-related injuries and illness, high blood pressure is a common, serious concern for workers in a variety of fields. In addition to putting you at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, high blood pressure can have numerous other devastating effects on your health. In honor of National High Blood Pressure Education Month, the following is important information to be aware of about the effects of high blood pressure, as well as how your job can play a part in developing this chronic and dangerous condition.
The Effect High Blood Pressure Has On Your Health
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the month of May has been designated as High Blood Pressure Education Month in an effort to raise public awareness about this dangerous and potentially life threatening condition. High blood pressure, often referred to as hypertension, is known as the silent killer. With few detectable symptoms, it affects roughly one out of every three Americans and results in an estimated 1,000 deaths each day.
While heart disease and stroke are the two most common health conditions associated with high blood pressure, living with hypertension can have a negative impact on other areas of the body as well. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic list the following conditions that can occur as the result of uncontrolled high blood pressure.
- Damage to the brain, including dementia and cognitive impairment;
- Kidney damage, such as kidney failure;
- Damage to the eyes, including fluid buildup and scarring;
- Sleep disturbance, such as sleep apnea;
- Increased risk of sexual dysfunction; and
- Loss of bone density, resulting in osteoporosis.
High blood pressure occurs as the result of genetic factors, as well as from exposure to long-term stress.
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Is Your Job High Stress?
In a Medscape article on work and blood pressure, researchers reported a definite link between workers in high stress positions and the increased likelihood of suffering high blood pressure. According to Medscape, while occupations such as air traffic controllers, surgeons, and company executives are all jobs are often associated with being high stress, stress can be a problem in any positions in which job demands are high while worker control over the situation is low. This includes the following:
- Construction, production, and assembly workers;
- Call center and lower level office workers and clerks;
- Workers in the hospitality or service industry; and
- Hospital employees and public service workers.
Regardless of whether or not you feel like your job is stressful, make sure to get your blood pressure checked regularly to avoid potential problems.
Let Us Assist You Today
If you or someone you care about suffers a job related illness or injury, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm immediately. Our experienced South Carolina workers’ compensation attorneys can help you get the benefits you need to cover medical expenses and provide for yourself and your loved ones.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form