Released May 8, 2009
MARION, Ark. - Lifestyle changes and dedication are key to prevent and control the risks associated with high blood pressure, says VeEtta Simmons, Crittenden County extension agent with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
These steps are necessary because of the constant dangers of high blood pressure. "Once a person develops high blood pressure, they will usually have it for their entire life," says Simmons.
High blood pressure is another name for hypertension, any blood pressure reading 140/90 or higher. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health, blood pressure readings of 120/80 to 139/89 constitute stages of pre-hypertension - that is, the person does not have hypertension yet but is likely to develop it later.
High blood pressure often has no warning signs or symptoms. It increases a person's chance for heart disease, kidney disease and stroke, among the leading causes of death in the United States.
Regular screenings can detect elevated blood pressure levels before they become a more serious problem. Blood pressure should be checked regularly, says Simmons.
There are several ways to prevent and control high blood pressure.
Diet is a good place to start. Tips include maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and reducing sodium intake. "Follow a healthy eating plan that emphasizes fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy foods," says Simmons.
Smoking or drinking excess amounts of alcohol pose risks to health in general, and can make high blood pressure even worse. Alcohol doesn't have to be completely eliminated, but intake should be limited, Simmons says. Smoking, however, should be cut out completely. "If you smoke, quit!" she says.
Lifestyle changes may not be enough in some cases, and medical help may be required to bring blood pressure down to more manageable levels. Any recommendations should be made by a health care provider, says Simmons. If medication is prescribed to treat the problem, take it as directed.
"It's important to take steps to keep your blood pressure under control," she says.
Additional information on high blood pressure can be found at the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute's Web site, http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp.
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http://www.uaex.edu/news/may2009/0508blood_pressure.htm
Contact: Elizabeth Fortune, (501) 671-2120, efortune@uaex.edu
