High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the major risk factors for heart disease – the leading cause of death in the United States and Missouri. High blood pressure is also the number one risk factor for stroke – the third most common cause of death nationwide and the leading cause of disability in the state.

It is estimated that one in three adults has high blood pressure, but many do not know they have it. High blood pressure is sometimes called a “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms until serious problems develop. However, the condition is easily detected and can usually be controlled.

Maintaining a normal blood pressure level can reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the artery walls. Blood pressure commonly rises and falls during the day, but when it stays high for too long, it can cause problems to major organs including the heart, kidneys, and eyes.

Blood pressure is usually recorded as two numbers. The top (systolic) number represents the pressure while the heart is beating and the bottom (diastolic) number represents the pressure while the heart is resting between beats.

When is blood pressure considered high?
A normal blood pressure reading is 120/80. A blood pressure reading that is greater than 140/90 is considered high. A person who has a blood pressure reading higher than 120/80 but less than 140/90 is considered to have pre-hypertension and is at risk for developing high blood pressure.

People of all ages can develop high blood pressure.

Controlling your blood pressure
You can do a number of things to help keep your blood pressure at a healthy level, including:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Being physically active
• Eating a healthy diet
• Avoiding smoking and excess alcohol use

It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly. If it is high, follow your doctor’s recommendations for treating it. Be sure to take any medication you need as prescribed.