Today, Novus is here to provide an overview of a health condition that many of us forget to consider in our day-to-day lives—blood pressure. Let’s take a look at why understanding blood pressure is important, and the procedure for proper screening of blood pressure to ensure you stay in good shape.
Why is it important to track blood pressure?
Though we all love snacking on chips and other high-sodium snacks, there are often consequences. Hypertension (high blood pressure) can put you at greater risk of stroke, heart failure, and kidney damage. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 1 in 5 Canadian adults have high blood pressure (and of these people, 1/6 are unaware of their condition) and another 20% of Canadian adults have pre-hypertension. High blood pressure can cause heart disease without any warning signs.
How often should I check my blood pressure?
Regular checks of your blood pressure are very important to minimize risks to your health. The Heart and Stroke Foundation recommends that blood pressure be measured at least once every year. However, if you have a history of health conditions related to blood pressure (diabetes, obesity, overweight, etc.) or have a family history of high blood pressure or heart disease, more frequent testing may be required.
Certain ethnic groups are also at an increased risk of developing high blood pressure; these include South Asians, First Nations/Aboriginal Peoples, Inuits, and those of African descent. If you belong to one of these groups your doctor may recommend that you measure your blood pressure more often.
How is testing conducted?
We’ve all probably done a blood pressure test before. Blood pressure is measured through a simple and painless procedure. Your doctor will wrap a blood pressure cuff snugly around your upper arm and release the air slowly. The results will be one number (the larger, systolic pressure) over another (smaller, diastolic pressure). Keep in mind that measuring your blood pressure only once is usually not enough to diagnose high blood pressure. If your doctor suspects that you may have high blood pressure, your blood pressure may be measured up to four times on separate occasions.
Stay Healthy
By keeping regular tabs on your blood pressure and living a health lifestyle (keep sodium intake reasonable!), you’ll have no trouble with blood pressure affecting your health. Today’s overview was just a quick look at the intricacies of the condition. For comprehensive information, you’re already in the right place. We wish you the best of health!
Is it time to get checked?
Learn about screening guidelines for women and men.
For more insight, check out these health articles.
