Blood Pressure Basics
Since February is Heart Health Month, let�s take a look at some basic blood pressure information everyone should know. Nearly 80 million U.S. adults have hypertension, or high blood pressure, which is a symptomless condition that can lead to serious health issues.
What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure is the force that keeps your blood circulating through your body once it leaves the heart. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers � the first being the pressure when the heart contracts (systolic pressure) and the second being the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats (diastolic pressure).
What is hypertension?
High blood pressure (HBP or hypertension) is when your blood pressure, the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels, is consistently too high.
How is hypertension harmful?
The primary way that high blood pressure causes harm is by increasing the workload of the heart and blood vessels � making them work harder and less efficiently. If left untreated over time, hypertension can seriously damage the heart and coronary arteries. Some consequences may include heart attack, heart disease, congestive heart failure, aortic dissection and atherosclerosis.
The primary way that high blood pressure causes harm is by increasing the workload of the heart and blood vessels � making them work harder and less efficiently. If left untreated over time, hypertension can seriously damage the heart and coronary arteries. Some consequences may include heart attack, heart disease, congestive heart failure, aortic dissection and atherosclerosis.
What causes hypertension?
Family history is a key indicator, but lifestyle choices are also a significant factor. If your parents or close blood relatives have had hypertension, you are more likely to develop it, too. Stress, smoking and second-hand smoke exposure, getting older, diet and lack of physical activity can also contribute to high blood pressure.
How can I control my blood pressure?
There are several things you can do to help keep your blood pressure at healthy levels. The American Heart Association has several suggestions:
- Eat a better diet, which may include reducing salt intake
- Enjoy regular physical activity
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Manage stress
- Avoid tobacco smoke
- Comply with medication prescriptions
- If you drink, limit alcohol
More information on hypertension, including how to understand a blood pressure reading, is available on the American Heart Association website.
At The Little Clinic, we can quickly and easily check your blood pressure and discuss ways you can keep it in the healthy range. In fact, blood pressure screenings are free every day at The Little Clinic. Click here to find a clinic near you.