Are you worried about your blood pressure and health? The following are some of the most common questions about blood pressure.
Even though 47 percent of U.S. adults have high blood pressure (hypertension), many people still have questions about the condition. For example, not everyone knows that it typically presents no symptoms, earning the nickname “the silent killer.”
Due to this lack of symptoms, many people ignore the condition, which leads to about 500,000 deaths from hypertension-related illnesses every year. To help you get a handle on the basics, we answer some of the most common questions about blood pressure.
Q: What is blood pressure (BP)?
A: BP refers to the force of your blood pushing against your arterial walls and is read by measuring your systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) measures the force as your heart beats and is the top number on a reading. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) measures the force in between beats and is the bottom number on a reading.
Blood pressure is considered normal when the SBP is less than 120 and the DBP is less than 80 mm Hg (millimeter of mercury).
Q: What is hypertension?
A: High blood pressure is when your SBP is greater than 130 mm Hg and your DBP is greater than 80 mm Hg. If your levels remain elevated over a long period of time, it can damage the tissue in your arteries.
As a result, cholesterol plaque builds up alongside these damaged tissues, causing your arteries to narrow and making your heart work harder. All of this leads to heart problems and cardiovascular events if not treated properly.
Q: How can I check my blood pressure?
A: Checking your blood pressure is simple regardless of whether you’re at home or your doctor’s office. Whenever you visit your doctor, they will check your blood pressure at the start of your visit.
Typically, a healthcare professional will use a blood pressure cuff and wrap it around your arm to check your blood pressure levels. However, you can also get your own at-home blood pressure monitor to check your levels.
Q: How can I manage my blood pressure?
A: Managing your blood pressure starts with making healthy lifestyle changes. For example, you can begin to eat a more nutritious diet and reduce your salt intake. You should also make it a goal to exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days.
People with significantly elevated levels will likely need prescription medication to help supplement any lifestyle changes. Lastly, you can give your health an extra boost by taking supplements like HeartBeet Complete.
Its ingredients promote circulation, blood pressure health, energy levels, and more. Give your health the support it deserves by managing your blood pressure and taking HeartBeet Complete.
