Your Guide to Understanding and Controlling Hypertension

Date: 05/13/24

In support of Hypertension Awareness Month, Superior HealthPlan wants to encourage our members to take steps to lower their blood pressure and reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke.

Hypertension means your blood pressure is higher than normal. It usually has no warning signs or symptoms, so many people do not know they have it. A normal blood pressure level is 120/80 mmHg or lower. If you regularly have high blood pressure, you might have hypertension.

What causes hypertension?

A diet that is high in sodium, fats and cholesterol
A family history of hypertension
Lack of exercise
Conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease
Stress
Smoking

You can prevent or help control hypertension by having a healthy lifestyle. Exercising for 30 minutes a day, 5 days per week can help with high blood pressure. A diet with plenty of vegetables and protein like fish or chicken is also beneficial.

You should see your doctor every 3 to 6 months so that they can monitor your blood pressure. If your blood pressure is 180/120 mmHg or higher and you are experiencing chest pain and shortness of breath, contact your doctor immediately. You can use Superior's Where to Go for Care webpage to help you determine where and when you should get medical attention.

Superior offers Care Management and Disease Management programs to help you manage your healthcare needs. Visit the Superior HealthPlan website for more information about these programs.

For more information about hypertension and how to control it, visit the resources below.