Uncontrolled high blood pressure, also called hypertension, can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart disease and kidney failure. These can be delayed if not prevented by controlling your blood pressure. Over 65 million Americans, (1 in 3), and over half of Americans over age 60 have high blood pressure. You can have high blood pressure and not know it since it has no signs or symptoms. It is often called the “silent killer.” |
Find out more about High Blood Pressure
Learn more about high blood pressure on the National Heart Lung Blood Institute website.
Find out about modifying your risk factorson the Center for Disease and Prevention (CDC) website.
Know your blood pressure and have it checked regularly.
DASH
Dietary approaches to stop high blood pressure/hypertension (DASH) include an emphasis on eating:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Lowfat dairy products
- Low saturated fat, total fat and cholesterol
- Whole grains
- Poultry, fish and nuts
- Reduced amounts of fat, red meat, sweets and sugared beverages
- Lower amounts of sodium in food (salt)
Learn the senior health benefits of a Mediterranean Diet.
Learn more about blood pressure measurement.
High blood pressure is treated by modifying your risk factors and also with medication. Quit smoking, eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, get enough exercise, limit alcohol intake. You may also need to watch your salt (sodium) intake and take medications as prescribed. Learn more about high blood pressure treatments on the National Heart Lung Blood In stitute website.
