High Blood Pressure Awareness: Know Your Numbers & Take Action

❤️ May is High Blood Pressure Education Month ❤️

In the United States, over 100 million people have high blood pressure, also called hypertension. Many people don’t even know they have it. Symptoms often go unnoticed, but uncontrolled blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke.

🗓️ During May, have your blood pressure checked!

📅 Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or

💊 Visit a local pharmacy that offers blood pressure screenings.If your numbers are elevated, it may be time for a full physical.

📈 What Is Prehypertension?

Blood pressure slightly above normal is called prehypertension or elevated blood pressure—affecting nearly 30% of American adults. People with prehypertension are more likely to develop hypertension.

🧠 Know Your Numbers

When blood pressure is measured:

🔺 Systolic (upper number) – pressure when the heart beats

🔻 Diastolic (lower number) – pressure between beats

✅ Normal: Less than 120/80

⚠️ Common Risk Factors:

• 👵 Age – Risk increases with age; men are more affected under 64, women over 65

• 🧬 Family History – It often runs in families

• ⚖️ Overweight/Obesity – More body weight = more pressure on arteries

• 🚫 Physical Inactivity – Leads to higher heart rate and blood pressure

• 🚬 Tobacco Use – Damages arteries and raises blood pressure

• 🧂 High Sodium – Too much salt causes fluid retention

• 🍌 Low Potassium – Needed to balance sodium

• 🍷 Alcohol – Too much raises risk (limit 1 drink/day women, 2 drinks/day men)

• 😰 Stress – Can temporarily spike blood pressure

• 🛌 Chronic Conditions – Kidney disease, diabetes, sleep apnea increase risk

🛡️ How to Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure:

✅ Have your blood pressure checked regularly

⚖️ Maintain a healthy weight – BMI between 18.5 and 24.9

🏃‍♂️ Exercise – At least 3 brisk 10-minute walks a day, 5 days a week

🥗 Eat well – Diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low sodium (no more than 2,300 mg/day)

🚭 Quit smoking

🍷 Drink in moderation – Max 2 drinks/day for men, 1 for women

💊 Take medications as prescribed – Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully

Take charge of your health—know your numbers, make smart choices, and protect your heart.