As an exercise science and health student, hypertension is something that has been discussed in almost all of my coursework. And though hypertension can affect people across all majors, I am assuming that others may not have the same opportunity to learn about it as I have. Did you know that hypertension is synonymous with “high blood pressure?” This basically means that your heart is working harder than it should. Hypertension is a problem that affects nearly 74.2 million Americans per year, typically with no symptoms. However, even asymptomatic, this disease can lead to serious consequences such as vision loss, stroke, kidney failure, and even heart failure. And while many of the diseases that result from hypertension may not affect us until we are older, it is important to know what our numbers mean and how to keep them in a healthy range.
The American Heart Association (AHA) has set forth standards for healthy blood pressure and what is considered hypertensive. A blood pressure reading has two numbers. The top number is the systolic value. This measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats (or the heart muscle contracts). The bottom number is called the diastolic value, which measures the pressure in the arteries between heartbeats (when the heart muscle is resting and refilling with blood). In the chart, you can see blood pressure values and the appropriate actions recommended.
Recently, two University of Idaho students, Allyssa Nilsson and Greg Holcomb, interns with Gritman Cardiac Rehab, provided blood pressure screenings on the UI campus. With a total of 70 participants, 37 males and 33 females, nearly 40 percent fell into the categories of pre-hypertensive or hypertensive. With elevated blood pressures among our campus population, college age is the perfect time to start creating lifestyle habits that can contribute to lifelong heart health.
There are plenty of ways to keep blood pressure under control. AHA recommends finding a good source of potassium, consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables and exercising regularly. Limit sodium, stress, tobacco, alcohol, and excess weight. It is important to keep note of what a normal blood pressure is for you, and talk with your medical provider if you have concerns.
Kelsey Craft can be reached at [email protected]