Image Credit: Jesse Orrico
Taking charge of your health means understanding and managing key conditions before they become serious. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common yet often silent health issue that, if left untreated, can lead to severe health problems. Being proactive about your heart health can help you maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.
Here’s everything you need to know about high blood pressure and how to keep it under control:
High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. This condition often shows no noticeable symptoms, yet quietly damages your arteries, heart, and other vital organs. Early detection and proper management greatly reduce the risk of life-threatening complications, such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
Key Risks Associated with High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can lead to multiple serious health concerns, including:
- Heart Disease: Persistent high pressure can weaken your heart muscle, leading to coronary artery disease and heart failure.
- Stroke: Elevated blood pressure increases the risk of stroke by damaging and weakening your brain's blood vessels.
- Kidney Damage: Uncontrolled hypertension can harm the blood vessels in your kidneys, affecting their ability to filter waste from your blood.
- Vision Loss: Damage to blood vessels in the eyes can lead to blurred vision or even blindness.
- Cognitive Decline: High blood pressure may increase your risk of developing dementia or cognitive impairment later in life.
Know When to Check
Regular blood pressure screenings should begin as early as age 18 and continue routinely throughout life. If you have a family history of hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions, screenings might be necessary more frequently. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best screening schedule for your personal health needs.
What to Expect
A blood pressure screening is quick, painless, and typically takes just a few minutes. A cuff is wrapped around your upper arm and gently inflated, briefly restricting blood flow before releasing to measure your blood pressure accurately. Results are given as two numbers—systolic (pressure during heartbeats) and diastolic (pressure between beats)—with normal readings typically below 120/80 mmHg.
Preparation is Key
To get an accurate reading, avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and exercise at least 30 minutes before your screening.
Make Monitoring a Habit
Just like routine check-ups and dental visits, monitoring blood pressure should become part of your health routine. Consider purchasing a reliable home blood pressure monitor to track your numbers regularly, particularly if you have elevated readings or have been diagnosed with hypertension.
Stay Proactive with Your Health
Preventing or managing high blood pressure involves more than just screenings. A healthy diet low in sodium, regular physical activity, stress reduction, and medication adherence (if prescribed) are essential parts of controlling hypertension.
How We Can Help
At USFHP, your heart health is our priority. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals can support you in managing high blood pressure through personalized care, preventive screenings, lifestyle coaching, and convenient scheduling.
Visit usfhp.net or call 1-800-241-4848 to learn more or schedule your next blood pressure screening. Taking proactive steps today protects your health for tomorrow!