Manage Your Blood Pressure

How to Manage Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is called the “silent killer” because it often has no warning signs or symptoms, and many people don’t realize they have it.  That’s why it’s important to get your blood pressure checked regularly.

Blood pressure is the force of blood against your artery walls as it circulates through your body.  Blood pressure normally rises and falls throughout the day, but it can cause health problems if it stays high for a long time.  Having high blood pressure raises your risk for heart disease and stroke, leading causes of death in the United States.

About 1 in 3 U.S. adults – an estimated 68 million – have high blood pressure, which increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, leading causes of death in the United States.

The good news is that you can take steps to prevent high blood pressure, or to treat it if it is already high.  The main ways you can control your blood pressure are:

• Eat a better diet, which may include reducing salt
• Enjoy regular physical activity
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Manage stress
• Avoid tobacco smoke
• Comply with medication prescriptions
• If you drink, limit alcohol

You are the most important person involved in the management of your blood pressure!  Your healthcare team is here to help.  We encourage you to learn and ask questions.  The resources listed will give you tips to help you manage your blood pressure.