Keeping Your Cool: The Silent Danger of High Blood Pressure

May is High Blood Pressure Education Month, a crucial time to shine a light on one of the most serious—and often silent—health risks: hypertension. High blood pressure can quietly damage your heart, blood vessels, and organs for years before symptoms appear. At Crisp Regional Hospital, we’re committed to raising awareness about the dangers of hypertension and empowering you with tools to take control of your health.

Why High Blood Pressure Matters

Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure typically has no warning signs. Yet over time, it can lead to serious health problems like:

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Kidney failure

• Vision loss

According to the CDC, nearly half of American adults have hypertension or are taking medication to control it, yet many don’t even know they have it.

How to Monitor Your Blood Pressure

Keeping an eye on your blood pressure is one of the most effective ways to protect your health. Here’s how:

• Get Regular Checkups: Schedule routine visits with your primary care provider.

• Use a Home Monitor: Affordable devices make it easy to track your numbers at home.

• Know Your Numbers: A normal blood pressure reading is usually less than 120/80 mmHg.

If your readings are consistently high, talk to your Crisp Regional specialist about a treatment plan.

Lifestyle Changes to Help Manage High Blood Pressure

Managing hypertension often starts with simple, powerful lifestyle changes:

• Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit salt, saturated fats, and added sugars.

• Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, like brisk walking or cycling.

• Manage Stress: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.

• Limit Alcohol and Tobacco: Both can contribute to high blood pressure.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even a modest weight loss can make a big difference.

• Take Medications as Prescribed: If your doctor recommends medication, consistency is key to keeping your blood pressure under control.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing symptoms like headaches, dizziness, chest pain, or vision changes, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of dangerously high blood pressure requiring urgent care.

At Crisp Regional Hospital, we offer comprehensive support to help you monitor, manage, and lower your blood pressure—because your heart health is too important to leave to chance.