The last time you went to the doctor, what was your blood pressure? If it was lower than ¹²⁰⁄₈₀ mmHg, your blood pressure numbers were in normal range.

However, if your numbers read ¹⁴⁰⁄₉₀ mmHg or higher, that’s considered high blood pressure, or hypertension. Fortunately, the team at AFC Urgent Care Knoxville has some tips on how you can lower your blood pressure and maintain healthy blood pressure numbers.

What Is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure is a medical condition that occurs when the force of blood against the artery walls is too high. While there are some risk factors like genetics and family history that cannot be changed, there are some lifestyle changes you can make in order to lower your blood pressure.

Risk Factors of High Blood Pressure

• Advanced age
• Being overweight or obese
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Family history of the condition
• Smoking
• Unhealthy eating habits

How Can I Lower My Blood Pressure?

Taking steps to live a healthy lifestyle can help lower your blood pressure in many cases. Don’t smoke, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, limit alcohol consumption and lower your sodium intake to help limit your risk of hypertension.

It’s also important to have your blood pressure checked regularly, especially if you develop any symptoms of hypertension.

High Blood Pressure Symptoms

• Blood in urine
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Flushing
• Nosebleeds
• Shortness of breath
• Visual changes

If you feel you may have high blood pressure, stop by AFC Urgent Care Knoxville for a blood pressure reading. No appointment is necessary.