Maine Cardiovascular Health

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High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Over one-quarter of Maine adults report having been told that their blood pressure is high. For blood pressure to be considered high, the systolic (upper number) reading is 140 mm Hg or higher and the diastolic (lower number) reading is 90 mm Hg or higher. For people with diabetes, high blood pressure is considered 130/80 mm Hg or higher.

Regular exercise and a diet low in sodium can prevent high blood pressure. If you already have high blood pressure, a low-sodium diet (such as the DASH diet) and regular exercise can lower your blood pressure. Your health care provider may also ask you to take medications to lower your blood pressure.

 

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