Family Health

High blood pressure (also called hypertension) happens when blood flows through your arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. Usually there are no symptoms.

Normal blood pressure: 120/80 mm Hg or "120 over 80"

• The first number is systolic pressure: It's the force of the blood flow when blood is pumped out of the heart.
• The second number is diastolic pressure: Measured between heartbeats when the heart is filling with blood.

Reduce your risk by:

• Being physically active.
• Eating healthy.
• Quitting smoking.

Controlling your blood pressure can help prevent or delay your serious health problems, like heart disease and stroke. Schedule doctor visits to get checked.

Reference: National, Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Bania Parra, BA, Bilingual Health Education Specialist

Categories: Health Education Corner