National High Blood Pressure Education Month: Take Charge of Your Heart Health
May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month – a vital time to raise awareness about hypertension and its impact on overall health. At Izard Regional Hospital, we’re dedicated to helping our community understand the risks associated with high blood pressure and providing the resources needed to manage it effectively.
Often referred to as the “silent killer,” high blood pressure (or hypertension) typically presents no symptoms, yet it can lead to life-threatening conditions like heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and more. That’s why we’re emphasizing the importance of prevention, early detection, and ongoing management, especially here in our rural communities where access to care makes a difference.
What Is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. When that pressure is consistently too high, it strains your heart and damages your blood vessels over time. According to the American Heart Association, a reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher is considered high.
Hypertension increases your risk for:
· Heart disease and heart failure
· Stroke
· Kidney disease
· Vision loss
· Cognitive decline
The good news? High blood pressure is both preventable and manageable, especially with the support of your local healthcare team.
Risk Factors to Know
Many factors can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure, including:
1. Age – Risk increases as you get older, especially over age 50
2. Family History – Genetics can play a role
3. Obesity – Excess weight puts extra strain on your heart
4. Lack of Physical Activity – A sedentary lifestyle contributes to poor heart health
5. Poor Diet – Diets high in sodium and processed foods raise blood pressure
6. Excessive Alcohol – Too much alcohol can elevate your numbers
7. Smoking – Damages your arteries and increases risk
8. Chronic Conditions – Diabetes, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea are key contributors
Steps You Can Take Today
Managing blood pressure doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some simple, evidence-based steps you can take today:
1. Eat Heart-Healthy – Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. DASH diet is a great place to start.
2. Stay Active – Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity (like walking or gardening) most days.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight – Even small weight loss can make a big difference.
4. Limit Alcohol and Stop Smoking – Both increase blood pressure and overall health risks.
5. Reduce Stress – Consider deep breathing, prayer, walking, or quiet time outdoors to help manage daily stress.
6. Monitor Regularly – Schedule routine checkups and consider using a home blood pressure cuff for consistent monitoring.
7. Follow Prescribed Treatment Plans – If you’re prescribed medication, take it as directed. If you have concerns, talk with your healthcare provider about options.
We’re Here for Your Heart Health
At Izard Regional Hospital, we’re proud to serve our local community with compassionate, quality care close to home. Our providers are here to support you with regular checkups, screenings, medication management, and education to help you take control of your blood pressure and your health.
This National High Blood Pressure Education Month, we encourage everyone in our community to take a proactive step toward a healthier future. Together, we can reduce the impact of hypertension and build a stronger, heart-healthy state.
Schedule your blood pressure screening or wellness visit today by calling us at (870) 297-3726. Learn more at www.izardregionalhospital.com