Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a disease that can have serious complications. These include heart attack, stroke, or even death. People with high blood pressure can avoid these complications by keeping their blood pressure under control.
Your blood pressure (BP) is a measurement of two numbers. For example: 120/80.
- The upper number (systolic blood pressure) occurs after the heartbeat.
- The lower number (diastolic blood pressure) is the pressure on the blood vessel in between two heartbeats.
Your goal should be:
- If you also have diabetes: less than 130/80
- If you do not have diabetes: less than 140/90
- Optimal blood pressure for everyone: less than 120/80
Once you know your goal, reaching it and measuring it are important. To help you achieve these goals several things can be done. These include:
- Stop smoking
- Eat a healthy diet
- Lose weight
- Lower salt intake
- Reduce stress
- Limit alcohol
- Watch your cholesterol
- Exercise
- Take your medicine as prescribed by your doctor
For more information on high blood pressure, visit the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute or talk with your primary care provider.