High blood pressure is silent. And very common in our community
Hypertension is called “the silent killer” because it rarely causes symptoms until damage is done. It affects Latino and Black communities especially hard, and it’s a direct risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage.
How it's measured
Blood pressure is expressed with two numbers, for example 120/80. The first (systolic) is the pressure when your heart beats; the second (diastolic), when it rests between beats. Your doctor will tell you your target range, because it depends on your age, your conditions, and your medications.
What makes it worse
Too much salt, excess weight, a sedentary lifestyle, alcohol, tobacco, stress, and not taking your medication as directed.
What you can do today
- Cut back on salt: much of what we eat is already salted. Read the labels.
- Walk. Half an hour a day, most days.
- If you were prescribed medication, take it even if you feel fine. Feeling fine means it is working, not that you no longer need it.
- Measure your blood pressure at home if your doctor told you to, and write down the values.
Seek emergency care
Call 911 if you have:
- Chest pain.
- Trouble breathing.
- Weakness or numbness on one side of your body.
- Trouble speaking.
- A sudden, severe headache.
This information is educational and does not replace medical consultation.