High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects Black people in unique ways. It's known to: Why is high blood
pressure in Black people so common? If you are Black, what can you do to avoid having high blood pressure? Find out how you can protect yourself from this serious health condition. Researchers do not
have a definitive answer to this question, but some believe the following things have something to do with it: Researchers will hopefully find the causes for the high incidence of high blood pressure in Black people. In the meantime, there is a lot you can do to keep high blood
pressure from damaging your health. Being Black is a risk factor for developing high blood pressure. Others include: The more risk factors you have, the more likely it is that you have high blood pressure or will get it in the future. Take steps now to find out more. Even if you don't have high blood pressure, you can lower your risk by following the treatment guidelines for high blood pressure in Black people. Your doctor can easily measure blood pressure. A blood pressure reading includes two numbers, one written on top of the other. The top number is called your systolic blood pressure. This number represents the force of blood through your blood vessels during your heartbeat.
The bottom number is called your diastolic blood pressure. This number represents the force of blood through your blood vessels in between heartbeats, while your heart is resting.
Blood pressure changes throughout the day, depending on your activities. Blood pressure changes over time, as well. Systolic blood pressure tends to rise as you get older. Diastolic blood pressure may decrease as you get older. If either of your blood pressure readings is consistently above normal, then take action right away. Work with your doctor to develop a plan to treat high blood pressure before damage to your organs occurs. Treating High Blood Pressure in Black PeopleIf you have high blood pressure, consult your doctor to find which combination of treatments works best, given your individual health and lifestyle. Your treatment plan is likely to include the following elements:
Making Your High Blood Pressure Treatment Plan WorkTo be sure your high blood pressure treatment plan is working, follow these steps:
Your knowledge about the risk of high blood pressure in Black people is the first step in controlling this condition, so you can remain as healthy as possible for years to come. |