YOU: Under Pressure. What's a Normal Blood Pressure?

By RMHP

The Blood Pressure Cuff

We are all familiar with the blood pressure cuff, but what does it actually do? It’s a vital tool in diagnosing an illness you might not even know you have! Many people don’t realize they have high blood pressure, like Emma:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjTMZ_sm0LQ

 

Did you know that, according to the CDC, high blood pressure usually has no signs or symptoms.

 

There’s only one way to know whether you have high blood pressure: have a health care professional check it.  Knowing your blood pressure allows you to recognize if your body is on the right track, or if you need to get it under control. 

 

The American Heart Association lists blood pressure in the following categories:

 

If you have high blood pressure, there are ways you can help manage it:

 

• Choose healthy foods most of the time
• Enjoy regular physical activity
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Manage stress
• Avoid tobacco smoke
• Take medications as prescribed by your health care provider
• Limit alcohol
• Understand hot tub safety

These are great practices, even if your blood pressure is normal!

 

Wanting to get started but unsure how? Click here:

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HighBloodPressure/PreventionTreatmentofHighBloodPressure/Prevention-Treatment-of-High-Blood-Pressure_UCM_002054_Article.jsp

 

Remember, knowing your blood pressure is the first step in taking control of your health.  Get it checked and make control your goal!