High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is dangerous
1 in 4 adult New Yorkers have high blood pressure.
Many other New Yorkers have high blood pressure, but don't know it.
- High blood pressure (hypertension) can be overlooked because there are usually no symptoms. But it can cause stroke, heart attack and early death.
- Checking your blood pressure regularly helps you know if there is a problem.
- Groups more likely to have high blood pressure include people aged 65 and older, Blacks and Latinos.
You can help prevent/control high blood pressure
Whole grains, fruits and vegetables are best. Avoid processed foods.
Read nutrition labels and try to limit your sodium (salt) to 2,300 mg a day.
Limit the amount
of alcohol you drink.
Women: No more than 1 drink/day.
Men: No more than 2 drinks/day.
Get moving (walking counts!) for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Quit smoking, since it increases your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Whole grains, fruits and vegetables are best. Avoid processed foods.
Read nutrition labels and try to limit your sodium (salt) to 2,300 mg a day.
Limit the amount
of alcohol you drink.
Women: No more than 1 drink/day.
Men: No more than 2 drinks/day.
Get moving (walking counts!) for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Get moving (walking counts!) for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Every day is a new opportunity to make a healthy choice. Don't give up! Working toward these goals helps you lead a longer, healthier life.
Sticking with your medications matters
Take your medications, if prescribed. Some people stop taking their high blood pressure medications or skip doses because:
- They don't feel sick.
- They're worried about side effects.
- They're worried about being able to afford it.
- Their blood pressure has started to improve.
Understanding your blood pressure
Blood pressure is measured with two numbers. It is written with one number over the other. You can check your blood pressure at the doctor, at many pharmacies or at home.
The amount of pressure in your arteries when your heart pumps blood
The amount of pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between heartbeats
and
Below 80
most people
or
80 to 89
or
90 or higher
pressure
The table above is for people who have not been told they have high blood pressure. If you were already told you have hypertension, your provider can help you set a goal that is right for you.