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The Silent Killer
May is the month of celebrations and remembering -- Mothers' Day, Memorial Day, and graduations are usually the focus of our attention. But May is also Blood Pressure Education Month, and it's important to learn about this silent killer, so called because there usually aren't any symptoms before something serious happens due to hypertension.
More than 1 out of 10 Americans have high blood pressure* and of these, many don't know they are at risk. Unfortunately, the first symptom of high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) is a stroke or heart attack. Fortunately, high blood pressure is highly treatable.
If you don't know your blood pressure, take some time this month and have it checked. There are several self-testers located in drug stores, discount center, and medical supply stores, or you can go to your family physician and have your blood pressure tested.
What is blood pressure? Two numbers: Systolic and Diastolic. Systolic pressure (the top number) measures the force of your blood against blood vessel walls while your heart beats. Diastolic pressure (the bottom number) measures the force between beats. Blood pressure is considered normal when it reads less than 120/80. It is also normal for blood pressure to fluctuate. That's why it's important to be informed, to talk with your doctor and know your numbers; because hypertension left untreated may lead to many serious health conditions.
Many factors can contribute to high blood pressure including race, diet, family history, being overweight, age, and lack of regular exercise. Eating healthy foods, cutting down on salt intake, losing extra weight, regular exercise, giving up smoking, and limiting alcohol intake can help prevent or control hypertension and, when diagnosed, your doctor may prescribe medication to control it.
Take some time this month to have your blood pressure checked. The official motto of Blood Pressure Awareness month is “Know Your Numbers.” Make sure you know yours; it could save your life.
(*Source: www.new-fitness.com)