That’s a bit of a trick question, actually! While high blood pressure is incredibly common, it often doesn’t cause any symptoms. That makes knowing you have it a little difficult.

That’s why it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly, at least at your annual checkup. Read on to learn more about high blood pressure and how to prevent it.

What Is High Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the force with which blood hits your artery walls as it makes its way around the body. Normally, it flows pretty seamlessly.

But when you have high blood pressure, which is also called hypertension, it means that your blood is hitting those walls pretty forcefully. Over time, this can lead to damage and increase your risk of conditions like heart disease.

Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure

• Sedentary lifestyle
• Excess weight
• Poor diet
• Diet high in sodium or low in potassium
• Smoking
• Poorly managed stress
• Family history of high blood pressure

How Would I Know if I Have High Blood Pressure?

As we mentioned at the beginning of the blog, high blood pressure usually doesn’t have any symptoms. It’s often referenced as a silent killer for exactly that reason.

That’s why it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly. This allows your doctor keep a careful gauge on your blood pressure and offer suggestions for lowering it, if necessary.

How to Maintain Normal Blood Pressure

• Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days.
• Eat a balanced diet filled with fruits and veggies.
• Limit your intake of saturated fat, added sugars and sodium.
• Don’t smoke.
• Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation.

In need of medical care? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Spring Hill for a diagnosis and treatment plan.