Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It is measured in two numbers: systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart beats. Diastolic blood pressure is the pressure when your heart is at rest.
Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure is 130/80 mmHg or higher.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. It is important to control high blood pressure to reduce your risk of these serious health problems.
There are a number of things you can do to control high blood pressure, including:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
- Not smoking
- Limiting alcohol
- Taking medication if needed
If you have high blood pressure, it is important to see your doctor regularly to monitor your blood pressure and make sure that your treatment is working.
Here are some tips for managing high blood pressure:
- Keep track of your blood pressure at home. This will help you to see how your blood pressure is responding to treatment and to make sure that it is under control.
- Make lifestyle changes. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, losing weight, not smoking, and limiting alcohol are all important lifestyle changes that can help to control high blood pressure.
- Take your medication as prescribed. If you are taking medication for high blood pressure, it is important to take it as prescribed by your doctor.
- See your doctor regularly. It is important to see your doctor regularly to monitor your blood pressure and make sure that your treatment is working.
High blood pressure is a serious condition, but it can be controlled with lifestyle changes and medication. By following these tips, you can help to keep your blood pressure under control and reduce your risk of serious health problems.