If individuals recently received a high blood pressure diagnosis, they may want to consider taking an IQ test to gain insight into the current state of their cognitive function. New evidence from University of California, Davis researchers shows that high blood pressure, or hypertension, that goes uncontrolled in middle age can harm people's brain structure.

Based on their findings, the researchers now know that hypertensive and prehypertensive individuals who are in their 40s may be at a higher risk of experiencing accelerated brain aging. Damage to the brain's structural integrity and gray matter volume are among the neurological harm that can befall these individuals.

"The message here is really clear: People can influence their late-life brain health by knowing and treating their blood pressure at a young age, when you wouldn't necessarily be thinking about it," said Charles DeCarli, the study's senior author. "The people in our study were cognitively normal, so a lack of symptoms doesn't mean anything."

According to the Mayo Clinic, a diet heavy in sodium, too much alcohol and not enough exercise are all factors that could influence a high blood pressure diagnosis. Individuals who wish to keep their brain healthy as they get older should take a look at their daily routine and make sure they are not engaging in behaviors that are making them prime candidates for high blood pressure.