High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often called the "Silent Killer", because its symptoms can go unnoticed.  If left untreated, hypertension can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, cardiovascular disease and stroke.  While hypertension cannot be cured, successful management enables an estimated one in four Americans who suffer from hypertension to lead an active and productive life

Definitions

Blood Pressure - The natural pressure caused by blood pumping through your arteries and veins is measured and reported as one number over another.

Systolic - The top number.  It represents the pressure when the heart beats.

Diastolic - The bottom number.  It represents the heart when it is at rest.

Types of Hypertension
Hypertension is when the blood pressure rises to a potentially dangerous level and stays there.

Primary Hypertension - Occurs when the body's natural controls for blood pressure stops working well enough to keep pressure within normal limits.  This type of hypertension often runs in families.

Secondary Hypertension - Is caused by disease or may be a side effect of something such as decongestants, estrogen, steroids and drugs used to treat asthma.  Other factor such as stress, smoking, a high sodium diet and excess body weight can lead to secondary hypertension.

Blood pressure will fluctuate with diet, exercise and life.  Stay on top of your pressure, visit your doctor or local Plantation fire station to have your pressure checked on a weekly basis.

Managing Your High Blood Pressure
Successful treatment of high blood pressure begins with adopting strategies for a healthier life.  Eliminating risk factors, exercising and eating a well-balanced diet can help to lower blood pressure.  These activities also keep blood pressure within normal limits.  Remember, if your doctor prescribes blood pressure medicines, always take them as directed.

Some Medication Tips

• Take medication when prescribed and take the proper dose.
• If you miss a dose, do not take extra doses to "make up".
• Plan ahead, if you'll be away from home carry medications with you.
• Make a list of medications and keep it in a place that is easily found.  Plantation Fire Department offers a program called the "Vial of Life".  It is based on your medical history, and is left in a canister in your refrigerator.  This information can be used by the rescue unit in the case you cannot produce or remember your medical history.

Important Things to Remember

• If you smoke - STOP - Nicotine acts to construct blood vessels and blood pressure rises with the first inhalation of cigarette smoke.
• Exercise regularly to strengthen your heart and reduce risk of heart disease.
• Lose weight and try to maintain a healthy weight.  Remember, the heart has to work harder when you are overweight.
• Consult your physician on a regular basis.
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