Blood Pressure:
To Treat or Not To Treat?

Studies show that if a person is having a stroke, and that person has a history of hypertension, the blood pressure must be very carefully controlled. If the blood pressure is lowered too much, the brain might not get the amount of blood flow, and oxygen, that it needs. However if the blood pressure is left too high, it can cause the stroke to become worse. So how can you protect yourself?

The best way to beat hypertension is to keep your blood pressure under good control before you develop a problem:

• Get your blood pressure checked frequently, and keep track of the readings. Readings will change and it is important to pay attention to those changes over time.
  
  
• Have regular physical check-ups and keep your doctor aware of your blood pressure.
  
  
• Do not smoke.
  
  
• Do not use drugs.
  
  
• Avoid alcohol.
  
  
• Eat a sensible diet.
  
  
• Get plenty of exercise.
  
  
• If medication is prescribed to control your blood pressure, take it according to your doctor's instructions. Do not skip doses. Remember, even if your blood pressure is very high, you might not feel any symptoms.

Hypertension used to be called the "silent killer". Many people have it and don't know, because they feel fine. By the time they develop symptoms it may be too late. Many drug stores have machines where you can check your blood pressure for free. Don't let hypertension sneak up on you.

Danielle G. LeStrange, MSN, RN, CCRN, CS