Know your blood pressure numbers for heart month

  • Published
  • By the Health and Wellness Center
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Knowing to call 911 in an emergency can save your life. So can knowing your blood pressure numbers. Hopefully, they are less than 120/80 mmHg, which is normal.
If not, join the Mission to "Prevent and Control High Blood Pressure:" ask your doctor what your blood pressure numbers are, what they mean, and what you can do about them. Then do it. 

Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of arteries and other blood vessels. It rises and falls during the day. When it stays high over time, it becomes high blood pressure (also called hypertension). 

High blood pressure is dangerous. It increases your chances of developing heart disease and stroke, the first and third leading causes of death for Americans. It can also lead to other life-threatening conditions, such as heart failure, kidney disease, and blindness. 

More than 1 out of every 3 American adults currently has high blood pressure. This includes about 2 out of every 3 Americans over age 65. Once you reach age 55, your chances of developing high blood pressure are 9 out of 10. 

Fortunately, it is possible to prevent and control high blood pressure. Often simple lifestyle changes can do the trick. These include: 

· Losing weight, if necessary, and maintaining a healthy weight;
· Being physically active;
· Eating less salt and sodium;
· Following an eating plan rich in fruits and vegetables and low fat dairy foods, moderate in total fat and cholesterol, and low in saturated fat;
· If you drink alcoholic beverages, doing so in moderation. 

If these lifestyle changes aren't enough to reduce your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication. Work closely with your doctor to find the best dose, and then take your medication as your doctor prescribes. 

So join the Mission. Find out what your blood pressure numbers are and what they mean; then make gradual lifestyle changes and, if necessary, take your medications. It can save your life. 

For more information on how to prevent and control high blood pressure, visit "Your Guide to Controlling High Blood Pressure" online at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp/index.html.