Released May 23, 2008

MARION, Ark. - High blood pressure often has no warning signs or symptoms, but it can have deadly consequences, says VeEtta Simmons, Crittenden County extension agent with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, makes the heart work too hard and increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, the first and third leading causes of death among Americans.

Other conditions that may result from high blood pressure include congestive heart failure, kidney disease and blindness.

"The only way to determine whether you have high blood pressure is to have it checked regularly," says Simmons. "Most doctors will diagnose high blood pressure on the basis of two or more readings."

A consistent reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered high blood pressure.

A reading between 120/80 and 139/89 is considered pre-hypertension, and the person is likely to develop high blood pressure.

Anyone may develop high blood pressure; however, the following lifestyle changes may prevent or control it:

• Being physically active
• Eating foods with less salt and sodium
• Following a healthy eating plan with more fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Stopping smoking

If these lifestyle changes aren’t enough, talk with your health care provider, says Simmons. Take any prescribed medications as directed.

For more information on preventing or controlling high blood pressure, contact your county extension agent or visit http://www.uaex.edu. Use the Search link and type in High Blood Pressure. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A Division of Agriculture.

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http://www.uaex.edu/news/may2008/0523bloodpressure.htm

Contact: Lamar James, (501) 671-2187, ljames@uaex.edu