What is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the artery walls. High blood pressure means the force is too strong. This also means the heart is working extra hard to move blood. High blood pressure has no symptoms, but it can lead to serious health problems. With self-care, you can manage blood pressure and protect your health.
Your doctor will diagnose high blood pressure (HBP) using the results of blood pressure tests. These tests will be done several times to make sure the results are correct. If your numbers are high, your doctor may have you return for more tests to check your blood pressure over time. If your blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or higher over time, your doctor will likely diagnose you with HBP. If you have diabetes or chronic kidney disease, a blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg or higher is considered HBP.
There are certain things you can do to reduce your risk:
- Choose foods that are low in salt and saturated (animal) fat
- Get plenty of exercise; aim for 30 minutes on most days of the week
- Maintain a healthy weight; lose any extra pounds
- Don’t smoke. Avoid drinking more than 1 alcoholic drink a day for women, 2 for men
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medication to help lower your blood pressure. For the most benefit, continue with all parts of your treatment plan while taking medication.
National resources:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute;
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/ Hbp/HBP_Diagnosis.html
“Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005” and “A Healthier You”;
http://www.healthierus.gov/dietaryguidelines/
“Your Guide to Lowering Blood Pressure with DASH”;
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/ heart/hbp/dash/index.htm
“Your Guide to Lowering High Blood Pressure”;
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp/index.html
“Aim for a Healthy Weight”;
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/ obesity/lose_wt/index.htm