High blood pressure has been aptly called the "silent killer," because it usually produces NO symptoms! Millions of people have high blood pressure and many do not even know they have this serious condition.
Untreated high blood pressure increases slowly over the years. It is important, therefore, for anyone with risk factors to have their blood pressure checked regularly and to make appropriate lifestyle changes.
Regular blood pressure screening and lifestyle changes are urged for individuals who:
Have pre-high blood pressure
Have mildly elevated or above systolic pressure with normal diastolic
Family histories of high blood pressure
Are overweight
Are over forty years old
Take Action!
If you have not had your blood pressure checked in the past year, call your health care provider and schedule a check-up.
A check-up is especially important if you have ANY of the above risk factors.
Review Date: March 29, 2004
Reviewed By: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine,
Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Harvard University and Senior Medical Editor,
A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
