Hypertension is the term used to describe high blood pressure. A normal blood pressure reading for most adults is less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). You have high blood pressure when your numbers are regularly 140/90 or above. Read on for our self-care tips for managing high blood pressure.
Know your numbers
Blood pressure is written as two numbers, systolic/diastolic, and read as systolic 'over' diastolic. For example, if your systolic pressure is 118 mm Hg and your diastolic pressure is 78 mm Hg, your blood pressure is recorded as 118/78 and read as '118 over 78'. The systolic reading, or the first number, is the higher of the two. It tells you how much pressure is in your arteries when the heart beats (when the heart muscle contracts). Learn more.
Choosing a Blood Pressure Monitor
Taking your blood pressure at home every day is important for checking how well your blood pressure medicine is working. Learn more about home blood pressure monitors and how to use them.
Medicines
Blood pressure medicines work in different ways to lower blood pressure. Some remove extra fluid and salt from the body to lower blood pressure. Others slow down the heartbeat or relax and widen blood vessels. Often, two or more medicines may work better than one.
Medical Identification
A medical ID speaks for you when you cannot speak for yourself. Keep it with you at all times. Free and commercially sold options are available.
Blood Pressure Log
Some monitors keep track of your daily blood pressures for you. You may also want to carry a log in your wallet or on your cell phone.
High Blood Pressure Risks
Untreated high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. These are the first and third most common causes of death in the USA. Hypertension can also damage the kidneys and increase the risk of blindness and dementia. This is why hypertension is called a "silent killer." Learn more.
Tobacco Use
Tobacco use damages the blood vessel walls and speeds up the process of hardening of the arteries. If you smoke, quit. Once you quit, your risk of having a heart attack is reduced after the first year. View Unity's Tobacco Cessation Assistance & Resources.
Source: American Heart Association, Preventive Cardiology BP Article, Wellsource
When you and your health care team understand each other chances are you will feel better. Here are some tools to help you prepare for your visit with your doctor or nurse.
Healthy living means that you are eating healthy, being active every day, choosing positive thoughts, and taking steps to take care of yourself.
Eat Healthy
Eating healthy is all about eating better and controlling your weight. Both of these are important in managing your hypertension. Here are some resources to help you eat healthier:
Be Active Every Day
Being physically active is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent or control high blood pressure. It also helps reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Take Care of Yourself
Living Well with Chronic Conditions is a program that teaches people with chronic conditions to better manage their health. The program is available in your local area or online. The online program is available for a limited time.
