About one in every three Americans has high blood pressure. There are no symptoms and only just over half of the people with high blood pressure receive treatment.
Often called the "silent killer," uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney failure.
Blood pressure measures how hard your heart needs to work to push your blood through the veins and arteries. The top number is the pressure during a heartbeat, and the bottom number is the pressure between beats.
During Heart Month, ask your doctor for your specific numbers, not just "it's fine" or "it's a little high."
Work with your doctor to keep your top number at 119 or lower. Exercise, drinking enough water, a healthy diet, and managing stress all help keep high blood pressure in check, but some women need medication to manage it. Taking your medication regularly and as prescribed is essential to your health.
Find more tips and strategies in Eliz's new book The Busy Woman's Guide to a Healthy Heart or on her award winning blog at www.EmbraceYourHeart.com.