Understanding High Blood Pressure – The “Silent Killer”
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects millions of people worldwide and is often referred to as the “silent killer” due to its subtle symptoms. In 2021 alone, the CDC reported that high blood pressure was a primary or contributing cause of almost 700,000 deaths. Despite the complications associated with high blood pressure, such as heart attack, heart failure and stroke, the condition can often be easily controlled with simple lifestyle changes.
The Basics of High Blood Pressure:
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. It is measured and presented as two numbers: systolic pressure (the force when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (the force when the heart is at rest). A normal blood pressure reading is when the top number is below 120 and the bottom number is below 80. High blood pressure occurs when these readings are consistently higher than 130/80.
Reducing and Preventing High Blood Pressure:
As with most heart related conditions and diseases, the best ways to control high blood pressure are losing weight, exercising regularly and consulting with your doctor. While these methods treat high blood pressure, they can also prevent high blood pressure from ever developing.
Losing Weight:
Doctors often recommend weight loss as the first defense against blood pressure for two big reasons. Firstly, weighing too much causes changes in our brains that cause our natural mechanisms to shut down, which increases blood pressure – so weight loss naturally causes blood pressure to decrease. Additionally, excessive weight can cause disrupted breathing while we sleep, another factor that increases blood pressure.
Exercising Regularly:
Exercising regularly is one of the best ways to control high blood pressure because it positively impacts three primary causes of heart disease. Exercise reduces stress, helps control weight and strengthens the heart allowing it to pump blood more efficiently. Find an exercise plan that fits your health and lifestyle, and allows you to get your heart pumping several times a week.
Consulting with Your Doctor:
Regular visits with your primary care doctor or a cardiologist is crucial in effectively controlling high blood pressure. Health care professionals can conduct assessments, including blood pressure measurements and create a custom care plan based on your needs,. Through these personalized treatment plans, lifestyle recommendations, and appropriate medication, seeking professional help or simply communicating with your health professional can reduce the risk of serious complications such as heart disease and stroke.
OSU Medicine is ready to support your health journey with easy and affordable screening and diagnostic services for the early detection of heart disease. For information, call the OSU Cardiovascular Medicine clinic at 918-582-7711.