1. PREVENTING
HIGH BLOOD
PRESSURE
William D. Jones MD

2. Introduction
■ Since 1994,William D. Jones, MD, has practiced occupational and
preventive medicine in OklahomaCity, OK.William D. Jones, MD, focuses
on maintaining patients' health and guarding against conditions such as
hypertension, or high blood pressure.
High blood pressure affects approximately 33 percent of all adults in the
United States, although most do not experience any adverse symptoms.
However, in time, it can lead the heart to overwork, which can cause life-
threatening conditions including stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.
Some risk factors for high blood pressure, such as advanced age and a
family history of the condition, are unavoidable.Others, however, can be
reduced with certain lifestyle changes. For example, because a sedentary
lifestyle can increase one's risk of high blood pressure, a person can often
decrease that risk by exercising 2.5 hours each week at a moderate aerobic
intensity or 1.25 hours at a higher intensity.

3. High Blood Pressure
■ Increasing the level of physical activity may also aid in blood
pressure management by helping patients to maintain a healthy
weight. A healthy diet can also directly assist in lowering blood
pressure, particularly if the diet is low in sodium and high in
potassium. Experts recommend eating plenty of fresh produce and
minimizing consumption of fat, sugar, and alcohol.
Finally, it's important to keep lifestyle stress under control.
Individuals can work toward this goal using a variety of techniques,
from meditation to the pursuit of a hobby.The method is less
important than the end effect of relaxation.
Many people may still develop high blood pressure even with a
healthy lifestyle, so it's key that all patients seek out regular
medical care.This also allows them to receive advice on blood
pressure management from a qualified professional.