Pontypool Pacers

High Blood Pressure

What about high blood pressure?

High blood pressure increases your chances of developing heart disease, but there are usually no signs or symptoms of high blood pressure, so you may not be aware you have it. That's why you need to have your blood pressure checked by your doctor at least once every five years.

If you have high blood pressure, it can be treated in many ways. Making changes to your lifestyle is a first important step. Try to:

• keep at a healthy weight or lose weight, if necessary,
• reduce the amount of salt you eat,
• give up smoking,
• learn to relax and reduce stress,
• cut down on alcohol if necessary,
  exercise

If needed, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower your blood pressure. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions for taking it and discuss any problems or side effects with him or her.