February is Heart Health Month! Mid-State Health is raising awareness about the importance of understanding and managing high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. High blood pressure is one of the leading contributors to heart disease and stroke, and yet it often goes unnoticed because it typically doesn’t present noticeable symptoms. For this reason, it is often referred to as the “silent killer.” This makes it even more important to understand, monitor, and manage your blood pressure to protect your health.
Blood pressure measures the force of blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart beats. When blood pressure is consistently high, the heart and blood vessels are under increased stress. This can lead to serious health problems, raising the risk of conditions like heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other complications.
Several factors contribute to high blood pressure, some of which we can control. Age and family history are important factors, as blood pressure tends to rise as we age, and those with a family history of hypertension may be more at risk. But lifestyle choices play a huge role as well. A lack of physical activity, poor eating habits, and chronic stress can all raise blood pressure. That’s why it’s important to make heart-healthy choices every day to protect yourself and those around you.
The good news is that high blood pressure is manageable, and prevention is possible with small but impactful lifestyle changes. Eating a healthy, balanced diet that’s low in salt and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower your blood pressure. Regular physical activity, such as taking a brisk 30-minute walk, is another effective way to manage blood pressure and improve heart health. Maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, limiting alcohol, and smoking are also essential steps in keeping your blood pressure in check. Every change you make can positively affect your heart and overall well-being.
Since high blood pressure often has no symptoms, it’s important to have it checked regularly, especially if you have any risk factors like family history, age, or lifestyle habits that could contribute. Mid-State Health encourages everyone in the community to schedule a blood pressure screening. Regular monitoring can help you catch potential issues early and keep your heart healthy. If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, Mid-State is here to help. Their team of top-notch providers will work with you to create a personalized plan, combining lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication to manage your blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.
With a comprehensive list of services ranging from Nutrition to Recovery Services, Mid-State Health is dedicated to the health of our local community. By raising awareness and encouraging proactive steps toward heart health, they hope to help you and your family live longer, healthier lives. For more information or to schedule a blood pressure screening, visit www.midstatehealth.org or call (603) 536-4000.
About Mid-State Health Center
Mid-State Health Center delivers primary care and supportive services at locations in Bristol, Plymouth, and Lincoln, offering medical services, dental services, behavioral health counseling, physical and occupational therapy, imaging, infusion, recovery, and care management for the entire family. The mission of Mid-State Health Center is to provide sound primary health care to the community accessible to all regardless of the ability to pay.