Controlling Blood Pressure Keeps Hearts A-Ticking

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects nearly one in three adults in the United States. Dubbed the “silent killer” because of its lack of outward symptoms, high blood pressure can begin during childhood and lead to serious complications later in life, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. But with regular doctor visits and important lifestyle changes, blood pressure can be kept under control and serious complications can be avoided.

Blood pressure is an essential part of the circulatory system, helping blood to move through the body, bringing oxygen and nutrients to vital organs. High blood pressure can put stress on the system and cause major health problems.

Blood pressure is broken down into two readings. The first reading is the pressure when the heart is beating. This is called the systolic pressure. The second reading is the pressure between beats, when the heart is at rest. This is called the diastolic pressure. A healthy blood pressure reading for an adult should be less than 120 mm systolic pressure and less than 80 mm diastolic pressure (120/80 mm) or as doctors will say, “120 over 80.”

High blood pressure does not have to lead to serious complications. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor can recommend healthy habits to keep your condition under control.

Tips for keeping blood pressure down:

  • Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight;

  • Have a low-salt, low-fat diet;

  • Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods;

  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol use;

  • Reduce stress through meditation;

  • Limit caffeine;

  • Take BP medication daily if prescribed by your doctor.
     

Founded in 1985, Health Partners is the result of a unique collaboration among seven area hospitals to create a not-for-profit health plan for residents of Philadelphia. Over more than 20 years, Health Partners has garnered national attention for innovations in managed care, and now serves 140,000 members throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania.