What is hypertension or high blood pressure?
High blood pressure is a condition where the force of blood flowing through your blood vessels is consistently too high. This increases the workload for the heart and vessels and causes damage over time. It can lead to other conditions ranging from arrhythmia to heart attack and stroke when unmanaged.
High blood pressure has no symptoms. If you are concerned you might have a problem, talk to your primary care provider.
Know your numbers so you can manage high blood pressure:
Category |
Systolic |
And/Or |
Diastolic |
Normal |
Less than 120 |
And |
Less than 80 |
Elevated |
120-129 |
And |
Less than 80 |
High Blood Pressure |
130-139 |
Or |
80-89 |
High Blood Pressure |
140 or higher |
Or |
90 or higher |
Hypertensive Crisis |
Higher than 180 |
And/or |
Higher than 120 |
Systolic blood pressure (upper number) – the force of blood pumping out of the heart into the circulatory system.
Diastolic blood pressure (lower number) – the force in the circulatory system when the heart is at rest between beats.
How is hypertension treated?
You and your doctor work together to create your best treatment plan. Your plan may include lifestyle changes such as:
- Eating a healthier diet
- Reduce red meat
- Increase fruits and vegetables
- Reduce sodium
- Increase flavorful spices
- Reduce sweets and beverages containing sugar
- Increase fruit infused waters and sweet fruits
- Quitting smoking
- Being more physically active
- 30 minutes five days a week of moderate exercise
- Dealing with stress
- Take five minutes to breathe deeply and clear your head several times a day
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Treatment can also include medications
Monitoring and maintaining your blood pressure within a normal range is a life-long commitment to your health. You are as important in keeping yourself healthy as your doctor. Commit to making positive changes to enhance your healthy life.
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