What You Can Do to Prevent Hypertension

Hypertension is often referred to as "the silent killer" because there usually aren't any signs or symptoms. That's why it's important for you to take steps to prevent it—or to control it if you already have the condition.

What is hypertension? According to Prevea internal medicine physician Paul Pritchard, MD, "It's the force of your blood pushing against your artery walls as your heart pumps blood around your circulatory system." Blood pressure is expressed in two numbers. Systolic pressure (top number) is when the heart contracts and pumps the blood, and diastolic pressure (bottom number) is when the heart rests between beats.

Normal blood pressure should be less than 120/80. When blood pressure reaches 140/90, hypertension exists. And there are three stages of hypertension that define the severity of the disease and the medical course of action. High blood pressure is a risk factor for a number of illnesses including heart attacks, strokes, vascular problems, kidney abnormalities, and retinal damage.

Who's likely to develop hypertension?

Nearly one in three Americans age 20 and older has high blood pressure, and the likelihood of developing hypertension increases with age. In addition, being overweight and drinking alcohol excessively contribute to hypertension. If you're African American or have a family history of high blood pressure, you may also be more likely to develop the disease.

How can you prevent hypertension?

Here are some things you can do to reduce your chance of developing hypertension—and if you already have high blood pressure, taking these steps will help you control it better:

• Lose weight if you're overweight
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes five days per week
• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation

In addition to reducing calories and maintaining a healthy weight, it may be beneficial to lower your salt intake. Start reading labels because many processed foods contain large amounts of salt even though they don't taste salty.

Physical exams play an important role

When hypertension isn't diagnosed in the early stages, it's more difficult to treat—and there's a greater possibility of developing serious complications. Since there are no warning signs, it's important to have your blood pressure checked regularly. The frequency varies depending upon your age, medical condition, and risk factors. 

Dr. Pritchard points to a recent study conducted on elderly patients in Mississippi. He says: "In the past, many physicians felt there was no need to aggressively treat hypertension in people over 80. But this study shows it's very important to control blood pressure in this age group because doing so reduces mortality, strokes and heart attacks. So there's a significant benefit for elderly patients to have those regular checkups!"

Paul Pritchard, MD, sees patients at the Prevea East Mason Health Center, 3021 Voyager Drive, Green Bay. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Pritchard, call (920) 436-1366.