Given the fact that it is Hypertension Awareness Month, we thought we’d take this opportunity  to discuss the health risks that are caused by untreated high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, as well as what you can do to control and treat high blood pressure, if in fact you have it.

Approximately one third of the US population has high blood pressure, according to 2012 CDC statistics, and out of those, almost half are unaware that they have it and so are not being treated for it. These are staggering statistics.

High Blood Pressure, or hypertension, is an especially dangerous condition for those who have co-existing conditions such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, or who might have suffered a heart attack or stroke in the past.

How to Control High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is controllable through lifestyle changes. It is very important that especially those with co-existing conditions take proper measures to control their high blood pressure, much of which can be done without medication.

How to control hypertension (blood pressure)? Healthy life choices such as a heart healthy diet of lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking, exercising and controlling stress as much as possible.

Of course there are times when medication is necessary, and we can treat high blood pressure with fairly inexpensive medications that will keep your hypertension under control. It’s vital to get screened for high blood pressure. At AFC Urgent Care we are here to help screen, treat and help you control high blood pressure.