Thanks to new scientific guidelines issued by the American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology and nine other heart health groups, nearly half of all American adults have high blood pressure. The new guidelines were announced November 13.
High blood pressure used to be defined as a reading of 140 for systolic (top number) and a reading of 90 for diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure. The new guidelines sets a reading of 130/80 as high blood pressure. A reading of 120/80 is still considered a normal blood pressure reading
This change results in an additional 14% of U.S adults now categorized as having high blood pressure. However only about 2% of these people will actually need medication. Weight gain is associated with increased risk of developing high blood pressure. For this reason,the new guidelines emphasize lifestyle changes for people who are found to have elevated blood pressure.
High blood pressure (a.k.a hypertension) is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. Blood pressure can be affected by genetics, age, exercise, stress and other diseases like diabetes. High blood pressure often does not have any noticeable symptoms. However if left untreated, it can cause health conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
If you’re trying to lower your blood pressure consider doing the following:
Incsease Your Physical Activity
Aerobic activity for 20-30 minutes 5 days a week improves cardiovascular health. If injured, pursuing an activity that avoids the injured muscle group or joint can help maintain physical function while recovering.
Practice Stress Management
Pursuing an enjoyable activity or verbalizing frustration to reduce stress and improve mental health.
Quit Smoking
Quitting tobacco will help your overall health. The nicotine in cigarette smoke raises your blood pressure and heart rate. It also narrows your arteries and hardens their walls, and makes your blood more likely to clot.
Use a Blood Pressure Monitor
If you are concerned about high blood pressure, regular monitoring of blood pressure can help diagnose high blood pressure.
Switch to a Low Sodium Diet
A diet that restricts salt (sodium chloride) and other forms of sodium to no more than 1,500 to 2,400 mg per day.
Underdiagnosed and untreated high blood pressure is a serious problem in the United States. Early detection and treatment can prolong the health and life of patients. As your patient centered medical home, Mantachie Rural Health Care, Inc, offers care for both acute and chronic illnesses. If you suspect you have high blood pressure, schedule a Wellness Exam with us today by calling (662) 282-4226. We will be happy to discuss your concerns.
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