High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is when the force of your blood flowing through your vessels is consistently too high. Though there are typically no presenting symptoms, when left untreated, hypertension can have detrimental effects upon your circulatory system. It is essential to get your blood pressure checked at least once a year, as 1 in 3 American adults with high blood pressure are not even aware that they have hypertension.
Who is at Risk for Hypertension?
Anyone can get high blood pressure in their lifetime; however, there are certain risk factors that increase your chances of developing hypertension.
- Age: The chances of developing blood pressure rises with age
- Race: High blood pressure is more common in African American adults
- Weight: Overweight or obese people are more likely to contract high blood pressure
- Family History: A family history of hypertension increases your risk
Ways to Prevent High Blood Pressure
Eat a Healthy Diet
Maintaining a healthy diet is one of the best methods to keep your blood pressure low so as to protect against heart disease and stroke. Ensure that your diet includes numerous fruits and vegetables and lots of potassium, while minimizing the amount of sodium and saturated fat that you consume. Eating a healthy diet will also allow you to stay at a moderate weight, which further lowers your risk for hypertension.
Be Physically Active
Exercising regularly is another way that you can lower your blood pressure and stay at a healthy weight. It is recommended that adults get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, while children and adolescents get 1 hour per day.
Do Not Smoke or Vape
Smoking and vaping raises your blood pressure and places you at a much higher risk for a heart attack or stroke. If you currently smoke, there are numerous resources available to help you quit. If you do not smoke, do not start.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can raise your blood pressure, so it is ideal to drink in moderation. Men should have no more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day, while women should only have 1 alcoholic drink per day.
Get Adequate Sleep
Getting enough sleep is not only imperative to your overall health, but it is necessary to keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. By sleeping 8 hours at night, your risk for hypertension significantly decreases.
Contact The Kidney and Hypertension Center
At The Kidney and Hypertension Center, we pride ourselves in providing top-notch consultations and treatments for hypertension. If you or a loved one is concerned about developing high blood pressure or would like to learn more about treatment options, make an appointment or call (833) 247-3625 today!
