Small Steps to Take Control: May is High Blood Pressure Education Month
Did you know half of Americans have high blood pressure, and many don’t know they have it? May is a reminder to have yours checked and talk to a healthcare provider about what your numbers mean for you! Below, we dive into ways to lower your blood pressure to reduce the risks of potential health problems.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
A normal blood pressure level is less than 120/80 mmHg. A diagnosis of high blood pressure is when your blood pressure measures are consistently above normal. High blood pressure can cause many health issues, affecting vital organs, including your heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. In most cases, high blood pressure has no noticeable symptoms or only minor ones, so it’s sometimes known as “the silent killer.” The good new is, high blood pressure can be easily detected and you can work with your doctor to control it.
What to Ask When You Get Your Blood Pressure Checked
People age 18 and older with optimal blood pressure and no heart disease risk factors should have a blood pressure test at least once every two to five years. People age 40 and older, or younger with an increased risk of high blood pressure should have a blood pressure test every year. Use the questions above to talk to your doctor.
Healthy Blood Pressure for Healthy Hearts: Small Steps to Take Control
- Set targets. Work with your doctor to set blood pressure numbers that are healthy for you.
- Take control. Make lifestyle changes such as eating healthy, staying active, and watching your weight. If you smoke, quitting can help prevent heart disease and other complications of high blood pressure.
- Work together. Studies show that if you engage in heart-healthy activities with people at home, at work, in your community, or online, you have a better chance of staying motivated.
What to Eat
A diet low in sodium and saturated fat can lower your blood pressure as effectively as medicines. You should also try to get at least two and a half hours of physical activity a week to help lower and control blood pressure. That is just 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Stop by 501 Pharamcy
Our team would love to help you on your journey to lowering your blood pressure and living a more healthy lifestyle. Stop by and see us today!
Sources: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institue and Vail Health Foundation