Do y
ou know your numbers? That is a question you are starting to hear more often as health and wellness continues to evolve and become more important in everyday life. High blood pressure (HBP or hypertension) is when your blood pressure, the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels, is consistently too high, which can put your health at risk. Most of the time, there are no obvious symptoms, so it is important to know what your numbers mean to your overall health. In the recently updated guidelines, high blood pressure is classified as a reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher.
Although having high blood pressure is usually preventable with simple steps, it kills more people worldwide than any other condition. With proper treatment and management, you can control your blood pressure to help you live a long and healthy life. Making simple lifestyle changes can not only enhance your quality of life, but also reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and more.
Here are some positive lifestyle changes that really matter to your health:
• Eat a well-balanced, low salt diet
• Limit Alcohol
• Enjoy Regular physical activity
• Manage stress
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit smoking
• Take your medications properly and be sure to consult with your doctor
May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month and the American Heart Association wants you to check your blood pressure by May 17, World Hypertension Day. Visit Check. Change. Control to self-monitor your blood pressure readings at home to help you achieve a healthy heart.