High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a very serious matter.  About 1 in every 3 adults in America has it.  If left untreated, it can lead to kidney failure, coronary artery disease, stroke, and even heart failure.  Most people cannot sense when their blood pressure is high, so it is vital for you to get your blood pressure checked regularly and keep it in a normal range.  Stop by a local FastMed urgent care clinic if you are worried about your blood pressure. In order to have you blood pressure evaluated at FastMed, the patient must complete an office visit.

Here are 10 lifestyle changes that the Mayo Clinic lists as ways to help keep your blood pressure at a healthy level and reduce your chances of heart disease:

1. Watch your waistline and lose any extra weight
2. Exercise 30-60 minutes most days of the week
3. Eat a healthy diet of whole grains, fruits and veggies, and low fat dairy.
4. Monitor and reduce sodium in your diet
5. Limit your alcohol intake
6. Do not use tobacco products and avoid secondhand smoke
7. Cut down on your caffeine intake
8. Reduce your stress
9. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and see your doctor
10. Get support from family and friends

Jane Lykins, MD

FastMed Regional Medical Director, Tucson AZ

Board Certified in Family Medicine

About FastMed

FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.