120/ 80. It’s the blood pressure number we all aim for, but what does the ratio stand for?
The top number, known as systole, measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts, pumping blood to the body. The bottom number, diastole, measures the pressure in the arteries as the heart relaxes, filling with blood.
Blood pressure can vary from minute to minute with stress and sleep changes, and for some of us, white coat syndrome spikes blood pressure as we walk into the doctor’s office. While we know that keeping blood pressure in check is good, we may not fully understand why high blood pressure can put our health at risk.
Hypertension Awareness and Prevention Program (HAPp)
High blood pressure is a condition that often goes unnoticed. With little to no symptoms, hypertension has coined the name, “the silent killer” because it can cause major damage to the heart, brain, eyes, and kidneys before it feels like anything is wrong. This is why regularly checking blood pressure and taking measures to reduce hypertension is vital.
Starting February 3rd, the Hypertension Awareness and Prevention Program (HAPp) can teach you how to properly monitor blood pressure and make lifestyle shifts that can keep this silent disease at bay. You’ll gain access to 1:1 coaching and monitoring sessions along with monthly nutrition workshops. Plus, a free blood pressure monitor for you to keep!
The program will take place in both Barton and Ellis Counties, and if you have questions or would like to register, call 785-628-9430. Check out the flyers in this newsletter!
- Karissa Frasier, Community Health Worker