How High Blood Pressure Harms Your Body

If you have high blood pressure, it’s critical that you follow your prescribed treatment plan. Here’s why.

If you’re among the one in three Americans who have high blood pressure (hypertension), take note: it’s not something you can afford to ignore.  High blood pressure typically has no symptoms.

Since symptoms can be strong motivators, it can be tough to make lifestyle changes or see the need for treatment when you feel fine. But here’s why you need to follow “doctor’s orders.”

High blood pressure is a “silent killer” and not treating it can have serious consequences. 

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In check: Taking your blood pressure at home

By William Weese, M.D.

If your doctor believes there's reason to be concerned about your blood pressure, you may get some homework. He or she may ask you to check your numbers at home.

Perhaps you've been diagnosed with high blood pressure, or hypertension. Tracking your pressure — with a home monitor — can help you and your doctor know how your treatment is working.

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Keep your blood pressure in check

Hypertension is the term used to describe high blood pressure. High blood pressure causes the heart to work harder than normal and the blood vessels to get harder and less flexible over time. This puts you at a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney damage. Your blood pressure is considered high if you have a systolic blood pressure of 140 or greater or a diastolic pressure of 90 or greater. A healthy adult has a blood pressure of less than 130/80 mmHg.

High blood pressure can be controlled through lifestyle changes and, if needed, blood pressure lowering medications. We encourage you to have your blood pressure monitored regularly. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend these lifestyle changes: 

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Tip Tuesday! The big chill: Be cautious for your heart

By William Weese, M.D.

Getting out on a wintry, brisk day can be invigorating. But, there's one thing you should know: The cold can also be hard on your heart.

Your body needs to work harder to stay warm in cold weather. Adding physical activity on top of that increases your heart's workload.

If you have heart disease, the combination of frosty temperatures and vigorous activity can be particularly dangerous. For example, you might raise your risk of a heart attack, if you:

• Shovel after a heavy or wet snowfall
• Trudge through snowdrifts — or wet, thick snow
• Overdo it with a cold-weather activity — such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing

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