More than 75 million people have high blood pressure. Your blood pressure changes from day to day and even from moment to moment. It can be affected by stress, diet, exercise, hydration and medication. High blood pressure is also known as the “silent killer” because your body gives no warning signs that you have this condition.
Blood pressure is the force of the flowing blood against the walls of the arteries. It is measured at two phases of the health’s action. One is when the heart is contracting, this is called “systolic pressure.” The other is when the heart is relaxing between beats, this is called “diastolic pressure.”
Checklist for high blood pressure control
Only your doctor can diagnose if you have high blood pressure
Have your blood pressure checked regularly. Your primary care physician can tell you how often
Stop smoking
Avoid excessive salt intake
Eat more fresh fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber…and less fat
Reduce stress on and off the job; master relaxation techniques
Be moderate in your drinking
Exercise regularly and keep your body weight within normal limits
If your doctor prescribes medication to lower your blood pressure, be sure to follow their directions exactly
High Blood Pressure = 140/90 (or greater)
