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. | High Blood Pressure
According to the Heart and Stoke Foundation, high blood pressure is called the "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms.
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. A typical blood pressure reading may be "120 over 70". Blood pressure is considered normal when the reading is less than "140 over 90". When blood pressure is above that, have it rechecked and consider making some lifestyle changes.
High blood pressure can damage your body in a number of ways. It makes the heart work harder, causing the heart to enlarge and be less efficient. And, it can lead to hardening of the arteries, which can lead to problems with the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes. Proper control of high blood pressure can reduce the chance of blood vessel disease and help you live longer.
High blood pressure cannot be cured. It can be controlled through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication. In more than 90 percent of cases, the cause of high blood pressure is not known. Lifestyle changes can help to control or reduce your blood pressure. They include:
- losing weight if you are obese
- reducing your salt intake
- moderating your alcohol intake
- quitting smoking
- getting regular exercise at least three times a week
Finally, in cases where blood pressure is very high, health care practitioners will recommend medication in ADDITION to healthy lifestyle choices to control it. Blood pressure medication can only do its job if people follow medication instructions exactly.
Many Canadians who have high blood pressure don't know it. Have your blood pressure checked regularly. | |
