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Risks of High Blood Pressure

September 12, 2022, 9:56 pm

High blood pressure has been referred to as the “silent killer” because while it may not have obvious symptoms initially, the risk of health problems related to high blood pressure increase dramatically over time. Getting your blood pressure checked by your doctor is an easy step in the right direction to ensure you are staying healthy.

Unmanaged, high blood pressure can increase the likelihood of heart and other organ problems, including:

  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Chest pain
  • Peripheral artery disease – when narrowed arteries cause pain, fatigue, and cramping
  • Vision loss
  • Heart failure
  • Sexual disfunction
  • Kidney disease or failure

If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, you can make lifestyle changes that will lessen the risks of those health threats. Set yourself goals to:

  • See your doctor regularly
  • Take any medications as prescribed by your doctor
  • Ask your doctor about options for tracking and monitoring your blood pressure at home
  • Limit salty foods, foods high in saturated fat, and refined sugars
  • Exercise regularly
  • Find healthy ways to manage stress

CoxHealth’s Patient Education Library offers video clips and other informational materials online for free. Click here for a list of videos, tips and tools specifically created to help patients learn more about living with and managing high blood pressure.

 

Sources:

High Blood Pressure - Living With High Blood Pressure | NHLBI, NIH

Why High Blood Pressure is a "Silent Killer" | American Heart Association

Health Threats from High Blood Pressure | American Heart Association

What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)? | American Heart Association

 

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