AskDrRachel.com

Preventing Hypertension

By Rachel Franklin, M.D., "Your Family Doc"

OU Physicians Family Medicine

In the last post I talked with you about preventing heart attacks.  This time, I want to focus on high blood pressure, or hypertension.    Hypertension is defined as a blood pressure reading higher than 140 on the top number (called systolic) or higher than 90 on the bottom number (called diastolic).  Like the plumbing in our houses, our arteries can be damaged - and even break apart - when the pressure inside them is too high.  This can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney and heart failure and other significant problems.

Hypertension is called the "silent killer" because you won't feel its effects until it's too late.

To prevent high blood pressure, you must first know your risks, and work to eliminate or reduce those that are preventable.  The top risk factors for high blood pressure are:

• Smoking.
• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Being overweight.
• Getting older.
• Having a family history of high blood pressure.

Next, be sure and get a regular checkup with your Family Doc.  Most adults should have their blood pressure tested at least every 3 years.  Your doctor can help you identify your lost important risk factors and watch for early signs of hypertension.  She may also advise you on specific ways you can reduce your risks.

For starters, begin to prevent hypertension by following these simple steps:

• Exercise. At least 30 minutes every day.
• Eat better. Start by avoiding fats that are solid at room temperature.  Next, consider following a diet like the DASH plan that has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.  (Visit www.dashdiet.org</a> for more info)
• Lose weight. You only have so many blood vessels.  Giving them less body to serve helps them not to work as hard
• Stop smoking. I know I'm harping on a theme here.  Sorry, but it's the truth.

If you already have high blood pressure, follow the above steps and keep seeing your doctor.  Take your medicines as prescribed and talk to your doctor about taking a daily aspirin to reduce your risk of heart attack.  Please remember to email april-sandefer@ouhsc.edu or contact OU Physicians at 405-271-5067 if you have ideas you'd like to read about in this column.  Here's to your good health!

Dr. Franklin is a board certified family medicine specialist. Her areas of special interest include preventive health and wellness and women's and children's health. Her advice has been featured in outlets including The Learning Channel, Parents Magazine and FitPregnancy. For an appointment with Dr. Franklin or any of the OU Physicians Family Medicine physicians, call 405-271-4311