whay are the effects on the brain from long range high blood prressure

phyllis,

Thanks for your question.  The long range affects on the brain from high blood pressure (hypertension) actually pertain to the blood vessels of the brain.  These effects not only occur in the brain, but also everywhere in the body, especially the heart, kidneys, and eyes. 

Long standing hypertension causes blood vessels to become stiffer, instead of the normally elastic quality which helps them adjust to each and every heart beat. The result is that the actual pressure within these vessels remains high, without the vessel's ability to dampen the pressure.

Long standing hypertension contributes to the formation of plaques within blood vessels (atherosclerosis), and it's these plaques that form the blockages which can lead to strokes and heart attacks.  This is why it is essential to lower cholesterol which also contributes to plaque formation. 

To avoid these changes in the blood vessels, blood pressure needs to be kept under control.  This means seeing your physician on a regular basis, following a healthy diet that is low in salt and cholesterol (and fats), and always take your medication as prescribed.

I hope this has been helpful.

Martin Cane, M.D.