133 Pleasant Street, Berlin, NH 03570 603-752-2040 Donations
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133 Pleasant Street, Berlin, NH 03570 603-752-2040 Donations |
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| Hypertension (Pub Med
Health) Hypertension is the term used to describe high blood pressure. The top number is your systolic pressure. • It is considered high if it is over 140 most of the time. • It is considered normal if it is below 120 most of the time. The bottom number is your diastolic pressure. • It is considered high if it is 90 most of the time. • It is considered normal if it is below 80 most of the time. Causes, incidence, and risk factors Many factors can affect blood pressure, including: • How much water and salt you have in your body. • The condition of your kidneys, nervous system, or blood vessels • The levels of different body hormones You have a higher risk of high blood pressure if you: • Are African America • Are Obese • Are often stressed or anxious • Eat too much salt in your diet • Have a family history of high blood pressure • Have diabetes • Smoke Symptoms Most of the time, there are no symptoms. Symptoms that may occur include: • Confusion • Ear noise or buzzing • Fatigue • Headache • Irregular heartbeat • Nosebleed • Vision changes If you have a severe headache or any of the symptoms above, see your medical provider right away. Treatment The goal of treatment is to reduce blood pressure so that you have a lower risk of complications. You and your health care provider should set a blood pressure goal for you. There are many different medicines that can be used to treat high blood pressure. Your health care provider may also tell you to exercise, lose weight, and follow a healthier diet. Calling your health care provider Call your health care provider right away if home monitoring shows that your blood pressure remains high or you have any of the following symptoms: • Chest pain • Confusion • Excessive tiredness • Headache • Nausea and vomiting • Shortness of breath • Significant sweating • Vision changes Prevention Adults over 18 should have their blood pressure checked routinely. Lifestyle changes may help control your blood pressure: • Avoid smoking • Do not consume more than 1 drink a day for women, 2 a day for men. • Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products while reducing total and saturated fat intake. • Exercise regularly. If possible, exercise for 30 minutes on most days. • If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control. • Lose weight if you are overweight. Excess weight adds strain to the heart. In some cases, weight loss may be the only treatment needed. • Manage your stress. Follow your health care provider’s recommendations to modify, treat, or control possible causes of hypertension. For more information visit: www.americanheart.org www.ash-us.org www.blood-pressure-hypertesion.com www.highbloodpressuremed.com www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp www.nih.gov |