According to the American Heart Association, blood pressure numbers that read less than ¹²⁰⁄₈₀ mmHg are considered to be within a normal, healthy range. However, about one in three people living in the United States have high blood pressure.

The team at AFC Urgent Care Cleveland wants you to understand the risks associated with high blood pressure and what you can do to prevent high blood pressure now and in the future.

What Is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure is defined as a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. In the U.S., high blood pressure is very common. In fact, more than 3 million cases of high blood pressure are diagnosed each year.

Risk Factors of High Blood Pressure

• Family history
• Age
• Race
• Chronic kidney disease
• Lack of physical activity
• A diet that is high in sodium
• Being overweight or obese
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Sleep apnea
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Stress

What Are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?

In many cases, those with high blood pressure experience no symptoms. But in some cases, someone with high blood pressure may experience fatigue, severe headache, confusion, vision issues, irregular heartbeat and/or chest pain.

Ways to Prevent High Blood Pressure

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat a balanced, healthy diet that’s low in sodium.
• Get plenty of sleep each night.
• Manage your stress.
• Drink only in moderation.

Are you worried that you might be experiencing high blood pressure? Come by AFC Urgent Care Center Cleveland today for a blood pressure check.