Common blood pressure myths and truths
When it comes to high blood pressure, knowledge truly is power. Here are a few of the most common myths about blood pressure — and the truth you need to know:
Myth: I don't feel ill, and I would if I really had high blood pressure.
Truth: One of the things that makes high blood pressure so dangerous is that it usually has no symptoms. The only way to be diagnosed with high blood pressure is by having it checked by your healthcare professional (HCP). So no matter how you're feeling, be sure to do so on a regular basis.
Myth: High blood pressure only affects the heart.
Truth: If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure, or vision problems.
The medications in the BP Success Zone Program are approved to treat high blood pressure in adults and are not approved to treat or prevent stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure, or vision problems.
Myth: Blood pressure medication actually makes me feel worse, so taking it doesn't do anything for me.
Truth: If you are experiencing side effects from your medication, check with your healthcare professional first. There are a variety of medications and combinations available, so you just have to find the medication or medications that fit you best. Every person is different, so your healthcare professional can work with you to select the medication or medications that can help you achieve your blood pressure goal. And never stop taking your medication without consulting your healthcare professional first.
Myth: Once I get to goal, I can stop taking my medication.
Truth: High Blood pressure cannot be cured; it can only be managed. Getting to goal means your lifestyle changes and blood pressure medication are working. So, if you are currently taking medication to manage your blood pressure, it's important to keep taking it, as prescribed by your HCP, even after you reach your blood pressure goal.
Myth: Checking my blood pressure once a year is enough.
Truth: Everyone's blood pressure varies throughout the day. A home monitor is a great way to take multiple measurements and store average readings, providing helpful data you can take to your healthcare professional. You should measure your blood pressure twice a day–once in the morning, once in the evening, or as directed by your HCP.
Myth: My high blood pressure is caused by stress and there's nothing I can do about it.
Truth: Stress only temporarily raises blood pressure and is not known to directly cause high blood pressure.
Join the BP Success Zone Program to bust more blood pressure myths—and arm yourself with the facts you need to help achieve your blood pressure goal. Join the BP Success Zone Program now.
*Limitations apply. This offer is not valid for patients reimbursed by federal healthcare programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, the Department of Veterans Affairs, state maternal and child health block grant programs under 42 U.S.C. section 701 et seq., state social services block grant programs under 42 U.S.C. section 1397 et seq., or any other similar federal or state healthcare program; or for patients in MA; or purchased outside the US and Puerto Rico. Void where prohibited by law, taxed, or restricted. See Terms & Conditions. If your pharmacist or cashier has questions about processing your savings, please refer them to the toll-free number on the back of the Savings & Membership Card. The BP Success Zone Program Savings & Membership Card is the property of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation and Therapy First and must be returned upon request. Both parties reserve the right to rescind, revoke, or amend this offer without notice. This offer will expire on December 31, 2010. Limit one offer per patient. Patient is responsible for reporting receipt of Program rewards to any private insurer that pays for or reimburses you for any part of the prescriptions filled with this Program.
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