Understanding Common Blood Pressure Myths and Facts
Since it can be difficult to tell whether you have high blood pressure, it can be hard to get concrete facts about this condition. Here are a few of the most common myths about blood pressure:
MYTH: People don't actually die from high blood pressure.
TRUTH: Every two minutes, one American dies from complications due to high blood pressure.
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 can be asymptomatic—meaning that it may show no signs or symptoms. The only way to be diagnosed with high blood pressure is by having it checked by your healthcare professional. So no matter how you're feeling, be sure to have your blood pressure checked on a regular basis.
MYTH: High blood pressure only affects the heart.
TRUTH: Your heart sends oxygen-rich blood through your blood vessels and throughout your body to distribute the oxygen. If the pressure in your vessels becomes too great, arteries may become constricted or harden, and your heart has to work harder to pump blood to the rest of your body. High blood pressure can potentially result in serious health problems, if left untreated.
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 team with you to select the medication or medications that best help you achieve your blood pressure goal. And never stop taking your medication without consulting your healthcare professional first.
MYTH: I can lower my blood pressure simply by eating better, limiting how much coffee I drink, reducing my stress and exercising more.
TRUTH: Adopting a healthier diet, reducing caffeine intake, managing stress better and becoming more active are all great changes to adopt in your life. But these changes alone may not be enough to lower your blood pressure to your goal; you may need medication or a combination of medications. The long-term effects of caffeine and stress on blood pressure are still unclear, so an important way to manage your blood pressure is to partner with your healthcare professional to find out if there is a medication or medications that can help you. A combination of diet, exercise, stress management and medication can put you on the road to reaching your blood pressure goal.
Joining the BP Success Zone Program will help you get to the bottom of even more myths about your blood pressure. You, your healthcare professional and the BP Success Zone Program can team up to bust these myths and achieve your blood pressure goal! Ask your healthcare professional if one of the medications in the BP Success Zone Program family of products is right for you.
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