Hypertension

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention about 1 of 3 U.S. adults or about 75 million (29%) people, have high blood pressure¹. High blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney disease, heart attacks, and strokes. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms. The best way to monitor your blood pressure is to have it checked regularly and know what the numbers mean. Managing blood pressure is a lifelong commitment.

Factors contributing to high blood pressure²:

• Smoking
• Being overweight
• Lack of physical activity
• Too much salt in the diet
• Drinking too much alcohol (more than 1 to 2 drinks per day)

What steps can be taken to help control high blood pressure?³

• Get regular checkups from your doctor- Complications from high blood pressure such as heart disease if found early may be more easily treated.

• Take medicine as directed — Your doctor can decide which medications are right for you. Once you’re on a medicine, take it as your doctor recommends, report any side effects and don’t stop taking it without checking with your doctor.

• Talk to your doctor - about your blood pressure numbers and your personal blood pressure goal.
• Check your blood pressure regularly
• Make Lifestyle Changes that include:
  • Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt(sodium),  fat , and cholesterol.
  • Maintain a healthy weight — If you’re overweight, talk with your doctor about setting a realistic weight loss goal.
  • Decrease your alcohol intake and drink in moderation
  • Make physical activity a daily part of your life- talk with your doctor before starting any type of exercise program then choose an activity you enjoy.
  • If you smoke, quit smoking
  • Deal with stress and tension — Try walking, writing in a journal, meditation, relaxation techniques or yoga, and remember to laugh!
  • Get your family involved in your care plan

For more information, talk to your medical provider.

Reference:

1- https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/index.htm

2- https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/hbcauses

3- http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HighBloodPressure/MakeChangesThatMatter/Changes-You-Can-Make-to-Manage-High-Blood-Pressure_UCM_002054_Article.jsp