Prevent & Monitor
Understanding Blood Pressure
The quiet number worth watching
This is general education, not medical advice. Everyone is different, so always talk with your own doctor before making changes to your health, activity, or medications.
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, yet it is a leading cause of heart attack and stroke. The reassuring part is that it can be measured easily and managed well with everyday habits and, when needed, medication.
What you can do
- Have your blood pressure checked regularly, including at home
- Reduce salt and eat more vegetables, fruit, and whole grains
- Stay active and keep a healthy weight
- Take any prescribed medication exactly as directed
Watch and learn
Hypertension: What It Is and How to Manage It
Cleveland ClinicAre There Natural Ways to Lower Blood Pressure?
Cleveland ClinicHypertension in 2024 and Beyond
Cleveland ClinicQuestions to ask your doctor
- What is my target blood pressure?
- How often should I check it at home?
- Could any of my habits or medications be raising it?
When to call your doctor
- A very high reading with headache, chest pain, or vision changes
- Sudden weakness, confusion, or trouble speaking, which is an emergency
