Hypertension

 Known as High Blood Pressure  Blood Pressure reading of greater than 140/90  Normal is less than 120/80 ◦ First number is when the heart pumps (systolic) ◦ Second number is when the heart is silent (diastolic)

 72 million Americans  31% of all Americans  Can affect anyone and at any age  Silent Killer ◦ Many people don’t know they have it  Presents without symptoms ◦ Can lead to heart and kidney problems

 Primary hypertension ◦ 90% of time cause is unknown  Secondary hypertension ◦ Caused by another problem  Chronic kidney disease  Some drugs

 Several machines can give you a measurement quickly

 Lifestyle Changes ◦ Weight Loss ◦ DASH diet  Fruits and Veggies  Whole Grain  Low Fat ◦ Reduced salt in diet (less than 2.4 grams per day)  Example of 2.4 grams  Show sodium on food label ◦ Increased Activity (30 minutes a day of moderate exercise most days of the week) ◦ Limit alcohol intake (no more than 2 drinks per day in men and 1 per day in women)

 Many drugs and combinations of drugs can help to lower blood pressure.