High Blood Pressure is a condition that changes the flow of blood through your body.
We understand that living with high blood pressure can be difficult. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. With the right tools and support, you can feel your best and spend more time doing the things that are important to you.
List of topics:
Blood Pressure (BP) is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries, which carry blood from your heart to other parts of your body.
Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. When blood pressure is high over a period of time, it can lead to other health problems.
Think of your healthy blood pressure range as the target you should aim for. That target is determined by your provider. It’s important for you to monitor and follow up with your provider regularly.
You and your healthcare provider should pick a healthy blood pressure range that is right for you!
Blood Pressure Category | Upper # (Systolic) |
Lower # (Diastolic) |
Things to talk about with my healthcare provider |
---|---|---|---|
Normal | less than 120 | less than 80 | How often your blood pressure should be monitored |
Elevated | 120-129 | Less than 80 |
|
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension Stage 1) |
130-139 | 80-89 |
|
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension Stage 2) |
140 or higher | 90 or higher |
|
Dangerously High Blood Pressure (Hypertensive Crisis) |
Higher than 180 | Higher than 120 | Call 911 or get to an Emergency Department RIGHT AWAY if you have any of the following signs of high blood pressure:
Call your provider’s office immediately to let them know that your blood pressure is above 180 or higher than 120 if you don’t have any of the signs listed above. |
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers. The first number, called systolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart beats.
The second number, called diastolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart rests between beats.
Measuring your blood pressure is easy and quick. Consider using these tips at home or at your provider’s office when taking your Blood Pressure to get an accurate reading.
Living with high blood pressure is not always easy. Knowing what is important to you can help you develop the right treatment plan for you. When you know and value the things that are important to you, it is easier for you to follow your plan.
Use the list below to pick what is important to you:
Now that you know what’s important to you, write it down in a place where you will see it.
This could be:
It will help remind you why managing your blood pressure is so important.
Each person has different things that get in the way of taking care of their blood pressure. The first step is to identify them. What gets in your way or makes it hard for you to take care of your blood pressure?
The following list may help you get started:
Download: What Gets in Your Way?Help is available to help you overcome these barriers. Make a call to one of the programs listed in the “What Gets in Your Way” document to get you started.
Being as healthy as possible with high blood pressure usually involves the following self-care behaviors:
Lifestyle changes can help lower your blood pressure. Each of the following changes can help you lower your blood pressure. Click on each change to learn more.
Once you decide what you would like to work on, you can set a goal. Goals give you a clear picture of what is important to you. You are more likely to reach your goals when you write them down and have a good plan. Remember to start with small changes in your self-care routine and take it one step at a time!
It is important to know your blood pressure before you get pregnant. It is more important to manage high blood pressure before, during, and after pregnancy.
High blood pressure during pregnancy may result in early delivery and low birth weight. You may be at higher risk for high blood pressure during pregnancy, known as preeclampsia.
Before you are pregnant:
After you are pregnant:
Nurse care managers are here to help and support you! They will help you find out what is important to you, and find you the services that will help you feel your best.
To reach Intensive Care Management, call 1.800.859.9889 and dial extension 2023.
Registered nurses are here to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Do you have a question about your health or a medical condition? Call 1.800.859.9889 and follow the prompts to talk to a nurse who will answer your questions or help you understand a medical condition.
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