ASK THE SOCIAL WORKER: HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE-HYPERTENSION
Q:
What can you tell me about high blood pressure? My doctor is monitoring
my blood pressure to determine if it might be high. I am 48 years old,
but I really know very little about this disease. What is the
difference between hypertension and prehypertension?
A: I am glad you want to learn about high blood pressure. Knowledge of this health condition may help you prevent and control it.
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (as the heart beats) and “over” diastolic pressure (as the heart relaxes between beats).
Blood pressure rises and falls throughout the day, but when it stays high over time it is called high blood pressure. Usually a blood pressure level higher than 140/90 mmHg is considered hypertension, the medical term for high blood pressure. Blood pressure between 120/80 mmHg and 139/89 mmHg is considered prehypertension.
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), one out of three American adults has high blood pressure. Since there are usually no warning signs of this condition, it is very important you have your blood pressure checked regularly. If not controlled, high blood pressure can lead to heart and kidney disease, stroke and blindness. Ask your doctor what you can do to help lower or prevent high blood pressure. The NHLBI reports that high blood pressure can be prevented and lowered by: - Maintaining a healthy weight
- Being physically active
- Following a healthy eating plan
- Reducing sodium in your diet
- Drinking alcohol in moderation
- Taking prescribed drugs as directed
- Quitting smoking
I encourage you to learn more about high blood pressure. Request the Will Rogers Institute’s free brochure, “Controlling High Blood Pressure,” at www.wrinstitute.org or (877)957-7575. Read the NHLBI’s free brochure, “Your Guide to Lowering Blood Pressure,” available at www.nhlbi.nih.gov or (301) 592-8573.
Sources: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, www.nhlbi.gov; and
American Heart Association, www.americanheart.org
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