Hypertension
A woman with hypertension (high blood pressure) has 3.5 times the risk of developing heart disease as a woman with normal blood pressure. Hypertension is more common in women taking oral contraceptives, obese women and African-American women. Genetics and age can also contribute to its development.
Why is high blood pressure a problem? The intensity of the blood flowing through the heart vessels causes wear and tear on the walls. If the injury to the walls is bad enough, blood clots can start to form thus stopping blood flow and ultimately causing a heart attack. In addition, the heart can become overburdened and become too weak to pump leading to heart failure.
The good news is that hypertension can be controlled. A healthy nutritional intake starting with low sodium, whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables is a great start. In addition, keep alcohol intake low as research has shown a link to alcohol and high blood pressure. Exercise is also a fantastic way to keep blood pressures down (there’s also the benefit of reducing stress which can raise blood pressure as well). Exercise also will help you manage your weight, which is also an important factor in managing high blood pressure. Finally, if you are on medications for hypertension be faithful and take them.
Tomorrow I’ll address the other risk factors for heart disease in women. Being proactive in taking care of our health is something that is in our control and that is a very good thing!
Hudson Valley Community College will participate in Wear Red Day on Friday, Feb. 6. The event is part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women Campaign.
Those (men too!) who make a donation of at least $5 will receive and pin and the “right” to wear red on Feb. 6.
Please consider making a donation today!
Donations may be made with the following volunteers:
–Tanya Hicks (ADM 240)
–Tara Bocketti or Deb Larkin (GUN 252)
–Vonnie Vannier or Tara Farley-Wyckoff (BTC 1042)
–Mary Musso (MCD 214)
–Cathy Campchero (BRN 008)
Published: Wed, 04 Feb 2015 13:09:23 +0000 by m.musso