Blood pressure isn’t just a number your doctor rattles off; it’s a big deal when it comes to your health. If it’s too high, it can lead to serious problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney trouble.
What is high blood pressure?
Think of your blood vessels like roads. If traffic is backed up, it’s harder for everything to move. That’s what high blood pressure (also called hypertension) does inside your body. It makes your heart and blood vessels work too hard.
When you get your blood pressure checked, your doctor looks at two numbers:
- Top number (systolic): Pressure when your heart pumps.
- Bottom number (diastolic): Pressure when your heart rests.
Both numbers matter.
What can raise your blood pressure?
Lots of things! Some you can’t control, but others you definitely can. Here’s what to watch for:
Family history
If your parents or grandparents had high blood pressure, you might, too. You can’t change your genes, but knowing your family history helps you stay on top of it.
Your habits
- Smoking: It narrows your blood vessels and makes your heart work harder.
- Drinking too much alcohol: One drink now and then? Okay. A lot all the time? Not okay.
- Sitting too much: Move your body. Even a daily walk helps.
- Stress: Stress can temporarily make your numbers go up, but it’s not often the main reason why you have high blood pressure. It’s still a good idea, though, to find healthy ways to relax.
What you eat
- Too much salt: It makes your body hold on to water, which raises blood pressure. Keep an eye on your sodium intake and choose lower-salt options when you can.
- Greasy, fatty foods: Burgers and fries are tasty, but they’re not great for your heart. Choose heart-healthy fats instead.
- Not enough fruits and veggies: These help your body stay balanced. Try adding more colors to your plate.
Not sure how to get started on a balanced diet? Our nutrition specialists can work with you to improve your overall health.
Age and gender
Blood pressure usually goes up as you get older. Keep an eye on your blood pressure as you add more candles to that birthday cake, and adopt healthy lifestyle habits that can keep those age-related risks at bay.
Men and women can experience blood pressure differently, so you definitely want to talk to your doctor about it.
Health conditions and medications
Certain health conditions and medications can throw a curveball at your blood pressure, causing it to rise. Be aware of these factors and maintain good heart health.
- Chronic disease: Conditions like diabetes and kidney disease can raise your risk. Manage these conditions effectively, and you can help prevent complications related to high blood pressure.
- Medications: Some medications, like NSAIDS or decongestants, might bump up your blood pressure, too. Ask your doctor if you’re unsure.
Small changes make big differences
You can’t control everything, but you can eat better, move more, and get regular check-ups. Yes, even those small changes make a big difference. Your heart will thank you.
