Controlling Your Blood Pressure

According to the CDC, nearly half of all adults have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and approximately 1 in 3 adults, who have hypertension, are not even aware they have it. Often symptoms of hypertension go unnoticed and without treatment, the likelihood of developing heart disease or having a stroke increases. The best prevention is knowing your numbers and taking action to control your blood pressure and protect your heart.

Know Your Blood Pressure Numbers:

Blood Pressure Category	Systolic mm Hg (upper number)	And/Or	Diastolic mm Hg (lower number)
Normal	Less than 120	and	Less than 80
Elevated	120-129	and	Less than 80
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 1	130-139	or	80-89
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 2	140 or higher	or	90 or higher
Hypertensive Crisis (consult your doctor mmediately)	Higher than 180	and/or	Higher than 120

Working together with your doctor to manage high blood pressure

• Ask about your blood pressure at your annual checkup. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about steps to take to control of your blood pressure to lower your risk for heart disease and stroke. Regularly check it between appointments either at home or at a pharmacy with a blood pressure monitor.
• Track your blood pressure readings. Keep a log of your blood pressure levels (PDF) and questions to ask your doctor (PDF).

Self-Monitor Your Blood Pressure Regularly

Learn how to correctly monitor your blood pressure at home to help keep you in a healthy range. Remember to follow the advice of your doctor or other health care professional.

Lifestyle Changes You Can Make To Manage Your Blood Pressure

• Enjoy regular physical activity
• Eat a well-balanced diet that’s low in salt
• Manage stress
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Limit alcohol
• Quit smoking
• Take your medications properly