Blood Pressure Check

May is High Blood Pressure Awareness Month. High blood pressure affects 1 in 4 Americans, and about a third of those have no idea they have it.

High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it has no warning signs or symptoms. High blood pressure is a risk factor for stroke and heart attack- so it is something you want to keep under control.

Fortunately, it is simple to get your blood pressure checked to be sure it’s within the “safe” range below 120/80. If you find yours is elevated, your doctor will do a series of checks and start you on an appropriate medication to lower it.

Additionally, proper diet and increased exercise can help bring it back to normal levels. Also cutting down on salt intake, smoking, and drinking alcohol can help. There has been a lot of research done on supplements, meditation, owning a pet, etc.– all of which seem to help lower blood pressure naturally.

So get your blood pressure checked regularly (at least every six months) and take steps to prevent high blood pressure or control it if necessary.