Do you have high blood pressure?

If you answer “no” because you’ve noticed no symptoms, consider this: There’s a reason high blood pressure (HBP) is called the “silent killer.” The fact is, nearly half of Americans – about 47 percent – has hypertension, or HBP.

Unfortunately, this asymptomatic condition is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, the leading causes of death in the U.S. Because it often goes unnoticed, HBP can be untreated for years.

Get the Beat on Your BP

Blood pressure is the force of your blood against the walls of your arteries. These arteries circulate blood throughout your body.

Blood pressure is measured in two numbers:

• Systolic – Pressure exerted when your heart beats
• Diastolic ­– Pressure exerted when your heart rests

A blood pressure of 120 (systolic) over 80 (diastolic) is considered normal. Elevated numbers indicate HBP, which requires medical attention.

Are You at Risk?

Some risk factors, such as family history, age, gender and race, are determined in your genes. You can, however, manage your blood pressure – and significantly lower your risk for developing heart disease and having a stroke – by:

• Adopting a healthy lifestyle. Moderate physical activity, a nutrient-rich diet and minimal use or abstinence from alcohol, tobacco and illegal/harmful drugs all contribute to managing HBP. MHealthy offers numerous programs that can help you achieve better health.
• Managing chronic health conditions, such as sleep apnea, high cholesterol and diabetes, which increase your risk for developing HBP.
• Coping with stress. Over time, chronic stress can sabotage your efforts toward better health and manifest in physical symptoms, including HBP.

Get Your Daily Measure

Your first goal? Take your blood pressure daily so you’ll know your numbers. Members of U-M Health Plans can receive a free blood pressure monitor through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Purchased monitors can be reimbursed through members’ Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts.

If your blood pressure is consistently higher than 120:80, see your family physician to develop a prevention/treatment plan. And if you have HBP and lifestyle management hasn't been a game-changer, ask your doctor about statins. This prescription medication can help prevent heart disease and stroke for adults with certain risk factors.

Generic cholesterol-lowering statins are covered with $0 copay under the U-M Prescription Drug Plan. Brand name statins are available with a copay.

View More Information

February is American Heart Month, which seeks to raise awareness about heart and stroke health. Whether you need virtual cooking courses to supplement nutrition changes, fitness classes to get moving, or a helping hand to kick a bad habit, MHealthy’s got your back.