8-26-08

High Blood Pressure

Nearly one third of U.S. adults have high blood pressure according to the American Heart Association.   High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is associated with many complications including heart disease, stroke and diabetes.  Dr. Maureen Francis, associate professor of internal medicine at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says many people have high blood pressure and are not aware of it.  She explains the blood pressure readings.

SOUND BITE:  “According to the Joint National Committee who sets recommendations for high blood pressure, normal is considered less than 120 over 80.  Numbers between 120 and 139 on the top, which is called the systolic blood pressure, and numbers between 80 and 89 on the bottom, which is called the diastolic blood pressure, those numbers are in the category of pre-hypertension.” 

Dr. Francis says readings of 140 over 90 and above indicate the individual has high blood pressure.  Usually there are no symptoms for high blood pressure in the early stages, so it is very important for individuals to monitor their blood pressure on a regular basis.

SOUND BITE:  “. . . it’s advisable for people with high blood pressure to have a monitor at home so they can assure that their numbers are under control.  You can find monitors everywhere, at medical supply stores, at retail stores, like Wal-Mart, Target and at your local drugstore.”
Dr. Francis recommends that people who have high blood pressure should monitor it carefully, make lifestyle changes and seek treatment from their primary care physician.

This is Ruth Slottag at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.