Did you know that more than 100 million Americans have high blood pressure? This condition, also known as hypertension, can cause a variety of symptoms and lead to more serious medical conditions, like heart attack and stroke. But there are steps you can take to lower your risk of developing high blood pressure. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville wants to share two ways you can do just that.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
As your body weight increases, so does your risk of developing high blood pressure. And about 70 million American adults are either overweight or obese. But it isn’t just the number on the scale that can raise your risk. Where you carry that excess weight is also a factor. According to a recent study, carrying extra weight around your waistline can put you at a greater risk of high blood pressure than carrying extra weight anywhere else on your body. Therefore, it’s important that you change your lifestyle in order to help shed the extra pounds and reduce your risk of high blood pressure. Even just losing a few pounds can make a significant difference. If exercise isn’t a normal part of your routine, it should be! Start by taking a walk around the block regularly to get your body moving. If you are looking for something new to view on a walk, you could even check out the Chevy Classic Roundup this weekend. Not only will you be able to take your brisk walk this weekend, you can also check out some amazing classic cars, which are sure to be a sight to see!
Take a Break From Stress
If you’re like most of us, you probably read that headline and laughed. But, we’re serious! Stress plays a huge role in blood pressure. Now, we know that it’s impossible to fully avoid stress in life. And in fact, some amount of stress is actually a positive thing for our lives and our health. But it’s important to know what’s healthy and what’s not—and to find ways to incorporate stress reduction techniques into your daily life. That walk we mentioned earlier is one way you can do that. Physical activity not only benefits your physical health, but also helps release positive endorphins that counteract stress. Try to plan “me time” once a week to ensure you are taking a break from the daily grind. No matter what activity you choose, doing something that relaxes you can help you lower your stress levels and find more joy in everyday life. It’s important to check your blood pressure regularly. Stop by AFC Urgent Care Sevierville for a wellness check, where we can take a look at your blood pressure and other important health measures.
