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Keys to Managing High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Hypertension is a disease. It normally has no symptoms, but without proper treatment it can lead to serious health problems. This is why it is important to always have your blood pressure checked during every doctor visit and speak to your doctor about the results.

Blood pressure should normally be 120/80 mm Hg. It’s normal for your blood pressure to go up and down, but if your numbers stay above normal most of the time such as 140/90 mm Hg, you may be at risk for high blood pressure.

Know Your Risk Factors
Hypertension affects people of all ages. Children are just as likely as their parents to experience high blood pressure. Knowing your risk factors can help you take simple steps to prevent hypertension.

Some risk factors that can raise your blood pressure include:

Traits – Such as your race or ethnicity (Hypertension affects more African American adults than Caucasian or Hispanic American adults in the United States.)
Conditions – Such as being overweight or obese
Unhealthy Habits – Such as:
- Eating too much sodium (salt)
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Not getting enough potassium
- Not doing enough physical activity
- Smoking
- Family history
- Long-lasting stress

Speak with your PCP if you are at risk for developing hypertension.

Take Control of Your Blood Pressure
Try to keep your blood pressure below 140/90 mm Hg. If you have diabetes or chronic kidney disease your doctor may recommend lower blood pressure numbers.

Steps to begin taking control of your blood pressure:

Follow a healthy meal plan - Your doctor may recommend a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, nuts, and other foods low in fat, cholesterol and sodium (salt).
Increase your physical activity - Regular physical activity such as walking, dancing, bowling, or riding a bike for at least 30 minutes a day can lower hypertension and reduce your risk of other health problems.
Maintain a healthy weight - Staying at a healthy weight can help control blood pressure and also reduce your risk of other health problems.

Quit smoking - Smoking can damage your blood vessels and raise your risk for hypertension. If you smoke or use tobacco, quit. Talk to your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit smoking.
Manage your stress - Learning how to manage stress, relax, and cope with problems can improve your emotional and physical health and help lower your blood pressure.
Medication - Your doctor may prescribe medication to control your blood pressure. Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking all medications.

Following the steps above and your doctor’s recommendation will help you lower your blood pressure and achieve a healthier lifestyle. Making lifestyle changes can be hard. Start by making one healthy lifestyle change at-a-time before trying a new one.

Live Healthy