Dr. Jeremy Wigginton, Chief Medical Officer at Capital Blue Cross, stresses the necessity of annual blood pressure checks, particularly as individuals age. High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects nearly half of all U.S. adults, yet only about 25% have it under control, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The American Heart Association provides clear guidelines on what constitutes normal and high blood pressure levels.
Hypertension often shows no symptoms but can severely affect the heart, brain, kidneys, and vision. Dr. Wigginton notes, “Knowing your blood pressure and actively managing it can significantly improve your health.”
Capital Blue Cross recommends several strategies to manage or prevent hypertension:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even a small weight loss can reduce blood pressure. Regular moderate exercise, like walking, is advised.
- Limit Salt Intake: Reducing sodium consumption can help decrease blood pressure. The recommended limit is less than 2,300 milligrams per day.
- Enhance Sleep Quality: Poor sleep can increase blood pressure risks. Ensuring adequate sleep is crucial for health.
- Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can elevate blood pressure. Capital Blue Cross offers resources to assist in quitting smoking.
- Monitor Blood Pressure at Home: Regular monitoring can help track progress and motivate lifestyle changes.
- Supportive Care Management: Capital Blue Cross provides a team to help members create personalized care plans for managing hypertension.
For more information on managing high blood pressure and the services offered by Capital Blue Cross, visit their website.
