3 Generations Participant Blood Pressure Results (Page 2 of 2) in pdf

These readings are not to be used for diagnostic purposes. It is important to note that blood

pressure doesn't stay the same all the time. It lowers as you sleep and rises when you wake up. Blood

pressure also rises when you're excited, nervous, or active. If your numbers stay above normal most of

the time, you're at risk for health problems. These blood pressure measurements may not mean that you

have high blood pressure. If your reading is above normal or you have concerns, you should see your

physician.

In the event that you have high blood pressure you may want to consider the following

information and recommendations from the American Heart Association:

Why is it important to treat high blood pressure? High blood pressure increases the risk of coronary

heart disease (which leads to heart attack and stroke), especially when it's present with other risk

factors, such as diabetes. When a person has high blood pressure and diabetes, a common

combination, their risk for cardiovascular disease doubles.

What can I do? There's no cure for high blood pressure. But it can be controlled. If you have

diabetes and high blood pressure, work with your physician to get your blood pressure below 130/80.

Weight control, regular physical activity and diet help lower blood pressure and manage cholesterol

and glycemia (the presence of glucose in the blood). When you talk to your healthcare provider, he

or she may discuss several options for treatment including:

Losing weight if you're overweight.

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Eating a healthy diet low in saturated fat, cholesterol and salt.

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Being more physically active.

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Limiting alcohol to no more than one drink per day for women or two drinks a day for men.

•

Taking medications.

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More resources:

American Heart Association:

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute:

Centers for Disease Control:

Hypertensive Crisis (as defined by the American Heart Association)

If you get a blood pressure reading of 180 or higher for your systolic pressure (top number) or

110 or higher for your diastolic pressure (bottom number), wait a couple of minutes and test it again

to verify that the first reading was accurate. There is no safe duration for blood pressure to remain in this

range. Do not wait to see if your pressure comes down on its own. Call 9-1-1 immediately for emergency

medical assistance. If you can't access the emergency medical services (EMS), have someone drive

you to the hospital right away. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, don't drive

yourself unless you have absolutely no other option.

SYMPTOMS OF A HYPTERTENSIVE CRISIS

High blood pressure is not typically accompanied by symptoms. However, those experiencing

hypertensive crisis may or may not experience one of more of these symptoms: • Severe

headache • Severe anxiety • Shortness of breath • Nosebleeds

3 Generations Participant Blood Pressure Results Page 2