The Heart Truth® About High Blood Pressure
The Heart Truth® About High Blood Pressure
When was the last time you had your blood pressure checked? It’s vital to do so during regular check-ups, as many don’t know they have high blood pressure until it becomes a severe issue. May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month, a time to learn about the effects of this condition on people of all ages. The Heart Truth® is a health education program created by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) to raise awareness about how high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, kidney disease, strokes, eye problems, and more. As part of our efforts to ensure proactive patients, Pegalis Law Group, LLC examines high blood pressure symptoms, risk factors, and steps you can take to improve and keep it under control for a healthy heart.
How Do You Know If You Have High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure (hypertension) occurs when your blood pushes too hard against your arteries, causing the heart to pump harder to circulate blood. High blood pressure may develop over time or from an underlying condition. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers. The top number (systolic) measures the pressure put on your artery walls when your heart contracts, while the bottom number (dystolic) measures the pressure put on your artery walls when your heart is at rest.
Healthcare providers measure blood pressure by placing a cuff securely around your bicep. The cuff is inflated to cut off the blood flow through your arm’s artery. As it inflates, you may experience tightness and minor discomfort. The top number is taken as the blood pressure falls while it’s deflating. The bottom number is recorded once the cuff completely deflates and the heart no longer contracts.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), standard blood pressure ranges should be below 120/80. Your blood pressure is high if you have a top number higher than 120 and a bottom number lower than 80. While you want your blood pressure to be low, it’s also possible to be too low. If your blood pressure is below 90/60, you could have a condition called hypotension.
What Are Common High Blood Pressure Symptoms?
For many, high blood pressure has no symptoms. However, the symptoms most commonly associated with high blood pressure include:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Severe headaches
- Nosebleeds
- Blurry vision
- Dizziness
- Nausea/vomiting
- Blood in urine
- Seizures
- Fatigue or confusion
- Anxiety
If you’re experiencing severe headaches or nosebleeds frequently, you could have severe high blood pressure. Blood pressure higher than 180/120 is considered a medical emergency and could lead to a heart attack, aneurysm, or stroke if untreated. Seek medical treatment immediately.
What Factors Can Increase Your Risk for High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure usually develops over time and may not have an identifiable cause. Congenital heart defects, kidney disease, thyroid issues, adrenal gland tumors, obesity, tobacco use, and atherosclerosis (plaque build-up in the arteries) may increase your risk. Pregnancy can cause high blood pressure, as can low potassium or high sodium levels. High blood pressure risks also increase with age. If you have a family or personal history of high blood pressure, monitoring it at home and during your annual check-ups is in your best interest. Don’t smoke, exercise, or drink caffeine immediately before measuring your blood pressure for the most accurate results.
What Steps Can You Take to Improve Your Blood Pressure?
Changing your diet and exercising regularly to maintain a healthy weight, finding ways to reduce your stress, quitting smoking, and taking prescribed medications are all ways to lower your blood pressure. Water, juices high in potassium, and teas can help flush out sodium, open up your blood vessels, and reduce pressure on your arteries. Living a heart-healthy lifestyle is recommended to keep your blood pressure under control in the long term. Read food labels, looking for low-sodium and less processed foods. Don’t add salt to food when cooking – use spices and herbs to add more flavor. Limit your alcohol and caffeine consumption. Develop better sleep and exercise habits and avoid stress triggers. These are all excellent ways to ensure a healthier heart and a healthier you.
Encouraging People to Be Proactive About Their Health
Pegalis Law Group, LLC is devoted to raising public awareness and creating proactive patients. We’re a New York-based personal injury and medical malpractice law firm with 50+ years of experience. Be sure to visit our website and follow us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to receive additional insights about your health this year and beyond.