Living Well with High Blood Pressure: Your Complete Management Guide

Understanding Your Condition

Hypertension (high blood pressure) occurs when the force of blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg.

Blood Pressure Categories:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
• Elevated: 120-129/less than 80 mmHg
• Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
• Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mmHg or higher

Managing Your Blood Pressure

Lifestyle Modifications

1. Diet Changes

   • Follow the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension)
   • Reduce sodium intake to less than 2,300mg daily
   • Increase potassium-rich foods
   • Limit alcohol consumption

2. Physical Activity

   • Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly
   • Include both cardio and strength training
   • Start slowly and gradually increase intensity

3. Weight Management

   • Maintain a healthy BMI (18.5-24.9)
   • Even small weight losses can improve blood pressure

Medication Management

• Take medications as prescribed
• Don't skip doses
• Report side effects to your healthcare provider
• Never stop medication without consulting your doctor

Monitoring Your Blood Pressure

Home Monitoring Tips

1. Measure at the same time daily
2. Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring
3. Keep your arm at heart level
4. Take multiple readings and record results

Warning Signs

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe headache
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Vision problems
• Confusion

Regular Follow-up

Schedule regular appointments with your healthcare provider to:

• Review your blood pressure readings
• Adjust medications if needed
• Discuss any concerns
• Monitor overall cardiovascular health

Additional Resources

• American Heart Association: www.heart.org
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: www.nhlbi.nih.gov