High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Blood pressure is the force of blood against your artery walls as it circulates through your body. Blood pressure normally rises and falls throughout the day, but it can cause health problems if it stays high for a long time. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke and other health problems. High blood pressure is called the "silent killer" because it often has no warning signs or symptoms, and many people don't realize they have it.
At Risk Populations
- People with diabetes
- Older people;
- African Americans, particularly women;
- Pregnant women.
What you can do to reduce your risk
- Eat a heart-healthy low salt diet.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- If you smoke quit
- Exercise; be physically active.
- Know your blood pressure.