Hypertension Awareness Month

Contact the OKIB community health nurse with any questions: 250-542-5094

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension (high blood pressure) occurs when the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. As a result, the heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. Over time, this increased workload can damage blood vessels and lead to serious health complications, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney problems and vision loss.

To prevent hypertension:

-Reduce salt intake

-Do daily exercise

-Choose foods rich in potassium, fiber and protein

-Maintain a healthy weight

-Limit alcohol consumption

-Manage stress

-Quit smoking

-Monitor blood pressure regularly