Collin County Living Well Magazine Fall 2013 | Page 28

Hypertension
The Silent Killer
Mika Bradford, CN, CPhT

re you one of the 55.1% of Americans who has undiagnosed or untreated hypertension? Hypertension is a condition where the pressure of the blood is raised above normal. Blood pressure varies and increases with age, and it can be affected by different lifestyles. Minor fluctuations in blood pressure generally do not pose a risk to one’s health, but continued high pressure can have serious consequences, including stroke, heart attack, heart failure or kidney damage. You can monitor your blood pressure and heart rate on a regular basis, keeping track of your numbers will assist your physician in making decisions about your health plan. A log or record of your blood pressure and heart rate provides a clearer picture and overview of your risk for hypertension.

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your blood pressure are just a few ways you can reduce your risk of hypertension. Hypertension is also more common in certain ethnic groups, including AfricanAmericans and Asians, and in those countries with a high salt diet. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet plan is frequently suggested to be used as a dietary guide in making healthy food choices. The diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, low fat or nonfat dairy. It also includes grains, especially whole grains; lean meats, fish and poultry; nuts and beans. It is high fiber and low to moderate in fat. 

Are you at risk?

Lifestyle factors play a primary role in hypertension. There has also been evidence that you can inherit the tendency to have hypertension from your parents. But, do you know what lifestyle choices can be avoided or limited to protect you from this condition? Keeping your weight under control, regular physical activity, eating healthy and nutritious foods, limiting alcoholic beverages to no more than two a day, not smoking, while also avoiding medications that can increase

Important lifestyle factors that may cause hypertension include:
• Coffee consumption • Alcohol intake • Lack of exercise • Stress • Smoking

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Collin County Living Well Magazine • Fall 2013