High blood pressure, or hypertension, increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage. Fortunately, there are several preventive steps you can take:

• Exercise at least three times a week and include aerobic activities such as running, bicycling, and swimming. Some physically-demanding jobs may not involve aerobic exercise, so even if you've "been on your feet" all day, it's a good idea to find time for regular exercise. A bonus is that aerobic exercise, which keeps the heart in shape, can make you feel more energized.
• Reduce your salt intake. Help children learn they don't need to salt food to have it taste good. It is much harder to use less salt once a person is accustomed to it.
• Don't drink too much alcohol. Low levels of alcohol, such as one beer or one glass of wine, can have a positive, relaxing effect. However, having two, three, or more alcoholic drinks at one sitting can contribute to high blood pressure.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Eat fewer fatty foods and use healthy oils to reduce your weight and thus reduce high blood pressure.

The "White Coat Effect"

Do you have normal blood pressure except when you go to the doctor's office for a check-up and then your blood pressure is high? This is known as the "white coat effect.” The "white coat effect" suggests your blood pressure may increase in response to stress.

People who are pre-hypertensive—blood pressure somewhere between 120/80 (normal) and 140/90—can often reach a normal reading by exercising more and eating fewer salty foods. Your health care provider can prescribe a blood pressure cuff for you and teach you how to take readings yourself, so you regularly know your numbers.

Treating High Blood Pressure

Although an estimated one in three American adults has high blood pressure, fewer than half have it under control. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication to regulate your blood pressure. The preventive steps listed above are often used in tandem with medication to help lower your blood pressure.

During pregnancy, women who do not normally have high blood pressure can develop a form of high blood pressure known as pre-eclampsia. Women should have regular check-ups throughout pregnancy to monitor the condition.

It's important to see your doctor regularly so you have blood pressure readings to compare from year to year. If you are concerned about your blood pressure, make an appointment with a doctor today.

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