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DCI Home: Heart & Vascular Diseases: High Blood Pressure: Summary

      High Blood Pressure
 
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Summary
  • You have high blood pressure if your top (systolic) blood pressure number is usually 140 or higher, OR your bottom (diastolic) number is usually 90 or higher. Both numbers are important.
  • Exception: If you have diabetes or chronic kidney disease, you have high blood pressure if your top number is usually 130 or higher, OR your bottom number is usually 80 or higher.
  • High blood pressure usually has no signs or symptoms.
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure is dangerous and can lead to stroke, heart failure, heart attack, kidney failure, and blindness.
  • Blacks are more likely to have high blood pressure than whites.
  • Over half of adults age 60 and over have high blood pressure.
  • The most common form of high blood pressure in older adults is when only the (systolic) blood pressure number is usually 140 or higher. (You have high blood pressure when one or both numbers are high.)
  • Having your blood pressure checked is quick and easy.
  • It is important to keep track of your blood pressure and keep it under control.
  • You can help prevent high blood pressure by choosing a healthy way of life.
  • You can control your high blood pressure through healthy habits and taking medicines, if needed.

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