HEALTH & WELLNESS
ASK THE PHYSICIAN
S. Justin Szawlewicz, M.D
Attending Cardiologist, Vice Chair Medical
Staff answers your question:
Q: Just a few weeks back, my doctor said
I am “borderline” for high blood pressure;
what can I do about lowering it?
~Steve S. Hamilton
A: Steve, it’s good to know when you have borderline high
blood pressure (BP) – knowing means you can take steps
to lower your BP now, before it increases and becomes a
medical concern.
Steps you can take to lower your BP include:
• Exercising four or more times per week if your doctor
says it is OK
• Losing weight if you are overweight
• Eating healthier foods that are low in salt and fat, and
adding some foods that are higher in fiber (roughage), such as vegetables, whole grains and fruits
• Cutting down on caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate,
energy drinks)
• Quitting smoking
• Looking at unhealthy stressors in your life and minimizing them
Follow your doctor’s instructions, and keep adding up
those healthy lifestyle changes!
For a heart evaluation at Deborah Heart and Lung Center, call 800555-1990, or visit www.demanddeborah.org.
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