3.The Hypertension Danger Zone
You have stage 1 high blood pressure if your systolic reading is between 130 and 139 or your diastolic is between 80 and 89. A reading of 140 or higher systolic or 90 or greater diastolic is stage 2 hypertension. You may not have symptoms. If your systolic is over 180 or your diastolic is above over 120, you may be having a hypertensive crisis, which can lead to a stroke, heart attack, or kidney damage. Rest for a few minutes and take your blood pressure again. If it’s still that high, call 911. Symptoms include a severe headache, anxiety, and nosebleeds. You might feel short of breath or pass out.
4.Say No to Sodium
Or at least watch how much you get. This building block of salt causes your body to retain fluid. That puts a greater burden on your heart and boosts your blood pressure. Aim for less than 2,500 milligrams of sodium per day. You’ll need to check nutrition labels and menus carefully. Processed foods make up the bulk of our sodium intake. Canned soups and lunch meats are prime suspects.
