Know Your Numbers
One of the best ways to reduce your risk of heart disease is to understand what exactly blood pressure is, and to regularly measure and monitor yours.
It is a misconception that heart health issues mainly affect men. Women can experience different symptoms which often leads to a late diagnosis. Both men and women need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease and know their numbers.
What Is Blood Pressure?;
Blood Pressure is the pressure of blood circulating around your body. There are two numbers that measure the level of blood pressure;
- Systolic pressure - the pressure of the blood when your heart beats to pump blood out
- Diastolic pressure - the pressure of the blood when your heart rate rests in between beats
What is a normal level of blood pressure?;
The normal level of blood pressure is 120 (systolic) over 80 (diastolic). Anything over these numbers should be checked by your doctor.
Common Heart Disease Risk Factors;
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Smoking
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Diabetes
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High cholesterol
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Inactive lifestyle
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High Blood Pressure
How To Reduce The Risk Of Heart Disease;
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Be more active
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Eat healthier
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Drink less alcohol
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Take your medicine as prescribed
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Regularly check your blood pressure
Hypertension means that your blood pressure is consistently higher than it should be. If this is the case, it is recommended that you keep a blood pressure monitor in your home to keep track of and manage your blood pressure levels.
How To Use A Blood Pressure Monitor At Home;
- Don't smoke, exercise, drink caffeinated beverages or alcohol within 30 minutes of measurements
- Rest in a chair for at least 5 minutes with your left arm resting comfortably on a flat surface at heart level
- Sit calmly and don't talk
- Place the bottom of the cuff above the bend of the elbow
- Ensure you are relaxed
- Sit still in a chair with both feet flat on the floor and your back straight and supported
- Take at least 2 readings; 1 minute apart in the morning before taking medications and in the evening before dinner
- Record all results
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If you have any concerns regarding your blood pressure, please contact your doctor.
