A heart healthy way to lower your risk for heart disease is to know and maintain good blood pressure. During heart health month, take the time to know your typical blood pressure reading.
There are self-service blood pressure machines available for use in many stores, and you can request a home blood pressure machine through most health care plans. Your blood pressure will also be checked at your yearly exam with your health care provider. Know your numbers!
If your blood pressure readings are consistently above normal, you may be diagnosed with high blood pressure or hypertension. If you notice consistently high readings, reach out to your health care professional to establish a plan for your specific needs.
Ways to control your blood pressure:
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a healthy diet
- Decrease your sodium intake (take the salt off the table)
- Limit the amount of alcohol you consume
- Quit smoking
- Cut back on caffeine
- Focus on ways to reduce stress
- Monitor your blood pressure at home so you know your numbers
- Maintain a healthy weight
For more information, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s High Blood Pressure Symptoms and Causes webpage.