5 Tips to Controlling Your Blood Pressure

4/12/2022 | Michael Gallagher, MD

One of the most critical aspects when it comes to your health is your blood pressure. That is why it’s one of the “vitals” taken down at every one of your visits. Keeping it in a healthy range will help protect all your vital organs but more importantly help you lead a happy life doing the things you enjoy daily. Here are five steps to maintaining a healthy blood pressure.


    1)    Lifestyle changes go a long way

    Losing about 10%-20% of your current weight, reducing your salt and alcohol intake, and doing between 90 and 150 minutes of weekly activity may be enough to help control your blood pressure. 

    2)    Regularly check your blood pressure

    Checking your blood pressure at home gives doctors a better idea of your true blood pressure and can help your doctor determine if you need a blood pressure medication. You can feel emboldened by watching your numbers improve with the healthy changes you make!

    3)    Technique, technique, technique!

    Use an arm-based cuff instead of a wrist-based cuff. You want to be seated in a chair with your back supported and feet flat on the ground. You either want to have your arm supported on an arm rest or table. Take your blood pressure a couple of times to obtain an average. 

    4)    Take your blood pressure medications as prescribed

    Blood pressure control is complicated and sometimes making healthy lifestyle changes are not enough. There are a variety of medications that can be used to help meet your blood pressure goals. 

    5)    Communicate with your doctor

    Your physician is here to help you reach your health goals. Please communicate with him or her about your concerns at any time. We are here for you and know that our decisions are made with your best interests in mind.  


Share This Article


Follow Us