August 18, 2021 | Healthy lifestyles, Prevention of Illness and Management of Chronic Conditions
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is blood pressure that is higher than normal. Your blood pressure changes throughout the day based on your activities. Having blood pressure that measures consistently above normal may result in a diagnosis of high blood pressure (or hypertension).
Preventing hypertension
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer these guidelines for preventing high blood pressure/hypertension:
- Eat a healthy diet with a variety of foods rich in potassium, fiber, and protein and lower in salt (sodium) and saturated fat.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Engage in physical activity on a regular basis.
- Don’t smoke. If you smoke, quit.
- Drink in moderation – no more than two alcoholic drinks per day for men, and one for women.
- Get enough sleep.
Managing hypertension
The higher your blood pressure levels, the more risk you have for other health problems, such as heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. If you or your loved one has hypertension, proper management is essential to avoid hospitalization or further complications.
- Measure your blood pressure regularly. The American Heart Association provides this information about how to do it and how to track it. The information is also available in Spanish.
- Manage your diabetes.
- Take all of your medicines as prescribed.
- Make lifestyle changes, such as the healthy practices listed above.
- See your doctor or healthcare provider regularly.
How a home health nurse can help
At Windward Home Health, our home health nurses have extensive experience helping clients manage hypertension and other chronic conditions. They can work with a client and their physician to create a customized plan of care, providing the client with their expertise and any family caregivers peace of mind.
Learn more about Windward Home Health or contact us to find out how we can help. We’re here when you need us.
The information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Talk to your doctor with questions about your health.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention