- Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common chronic condition that is one of the most important preventable causes of premature death worldwide.
- Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps. When this pressure stays high over time, it can damage the body in many ways.
- Blood pressure numbers include systolic and diastolic pressures. Systolic blood pressure is the pressure when the heart beats while pumping blood and diastolic blood pressure is the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.
- Known as the “silent killer” you can have high blood pressure for years without knowing it. During this time high blood pressure can damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the body.
- All blood pressure levels above 120/80mmHg increase your risk for health problems related to high blood pressure.
- Healthy habits can help prevent and control high blood pressure:
- Follow a healthy eating plan
- Get enough physical activity
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
- Manage and learn to cope with stress
- If taking medication for high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s treatment plan
- Knowing your blood pressure numbers is important even if you are feeling fine. The more steps you take to prevent and manage high blood pressure the longer you can live.
The information in this handout is taken from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. For more information and resources please visit www.americanheart.org or www.acc.org.
