Want to lower your blood pressure?

Living with high blood pressure can put you at a higher risk for heart attack and stroke. Knowing that you’re at a higher risk for serious complications can be a source of stress. At Goshen Heart & Vascular, we’re dedicated to ensuring your peace of mind by offering quality heart and vascular care, including high blood pressure prevention, in Goshen, IN.

With screenings, medication and support in lifestyle changes, your heart care team will work together to get your blood pressure within a normal range. Ask your primary care provider about beginning preventive high blood pressure care, or call (574) 537-5000 for a referral.

What is a normal blood pressure range?

Two forces make up your blood pressure. The top measurement, called systolic blood pressure, measures your heart’s pressure when it contracts and pushes blood through your body. This measurement should be less than 120.

Diastolic blood pressure, the measurement of the force when your heart’s relaxed and filling with blood, should be less than 80. If you have high blood pressure, reaching these ideal blood pressure measurements can be difficult. That’s why we offer a variety of treatment options to help you lower your blood pressure and keep it that way.

Causes of high blood pressure

Unhealthy lifestyle habits – such as smoking, carrying excess weight and leading a sedentary lifestyle – are the usual causes of primary hypertension, the most common type of high blood pressure. Kidney problems, thyroid disease and other underlying medical conditions can lead to high blood pressure, as well.

African-Americans, people over the age of 60 and those who have a family history of this disease all have a higher risk for getting high blood pressure.

How to lower blood pressure for a healthy heart

By making healthy choices, you can reduce your risk for high blood pressure and the complications that come with it. Follow these heart-healthy tips to prevent and lower blood pressure:

Eat a diet that includes protein, healthy fats and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Maintain a healthy body weight.
Exercise for 30 minutes, 5 to 6 days a week.
Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes.
Quit smoking.
Avoid excessive alcohol use.

At Goshen Heart & Vascular Center, healthy hearts are our top priority. Ask your doctor about receiving a screening for high blood pressure or call (574) 537-5000 to get a referral.

Providing care near and throughout Elkhart County, Goshen Heart & Vascular Center offers treatment services for high blood pressure in Goshen, IN.