Let's Talk Blood Pressure


I know, you think you've heard all there is about hypertension ( high blood pressure). You think every one has heard enough. I start to think the same but then I have yet another another patient present for cold and allergy symptoms, and I end up treating him or her for their dangerously high blood pressure.



What is blood pressure?
Our blood pressure is the force created by our blood against the walls of our arteries as it circulates through our bodies. If changes constantly throughout the day. If it stays high for a long time, it becomes dangerous, putting us at risk for heart disease and stroke, which are the 1st and 3rd leading killers of people in the U.S. Another dangerous thing about high blood pressure is that it may have nonspecific symptoms, such as a headache, fatigue, blurred vision, or nosebleeds, or absolutely no symptoms at all.


What is high blood pressure? Who is at risk?
Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80, at risk is 120-139/ 80-89, and high is 140/90 or higher.
One in every 3 American adults has high blood pressure. According the the American Heart Association, in 2006, the death rate for black men was 51.1 per 100,000 people. For white men, it was 15.6 per 100,000. For black women it was 37.7, and for white women it was 14.3.
Within the black community, those at most risk tend to be middle aged or older, less educated, overweight or obese, physically inactive, and have diabetes.

What can be done to reduce that risk?
Eat a healthy diet, containing plenty of fruits and vegetables. Exercise. Start with a walk around the block. Limit alcohol use. Stop smoking. Prevent or manage your diabetes. See your doctor, go to your nearest Harris County Health Center, or www.CDC.gov for this and more information.