Why High Blood Pressure Is Called “The Silent Killer”

February is American Heart Month, the perfect time to focus on your heart health and evaluate whether you’re at risk for high blood pressure (hypertension). Tens of millions of American adults have hypertension, but many don’t have it under control. The unfortunate fact is that this “silent killer” typically goes unnoticed for years as it puts your health at risk. The main reason hypertension is dangerous is because it increases the workload of the heart and blood vessels. Heart disease is the #1 killer of American adults. Left untreated, hypertension can ultimately lead to health crises such as stroke or heart attack.

What to Do to Prevent Hypertension & Heart Disease

Keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range is essential. The good news is that hypertension, a chronic condition with no cure, can be avoided. You can prevent hypertension by being aware of your risk factors, having annual physical checkups, practicing a lifestyle, and making necessary changes as needed. Although not all factors that cause hypertension can be controlled, such as genetic or advancing age, many of the things that put you at increased risk can be modified through important lifestyle changes.

The following put you at increased risk of developing hypertension:

• Smoking cigarettes
• Being overweight or obese
• Eating an unhealthy diet
• Drinking alcohol excessively
• Being sedentary
• Developing type 2 diabetes
• Not getting enough sleep

What Can I Do to Avoid Hypertension & Heart Disease?

You can improve your blood pressure even if you already have hypertension by practicing healthy lifestyle choices. To do so, make sure you avoid tobacco, keep yourself at a healthy weight, eat a nutritious diet, limit alcohol intake, and exercise regularly. You should also see your primary care provider at least once per year for a physical exam to monitor your blood pressure. If you have a heart condition, your primary care doctor can refer you to a cardiologist for specialized care. Cardiologists are physicians who diagnose, treat, and manage heart disease.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Heart Health

Florida Health Care Plans (FHCP) promotes heart health awareness. We serve our community by offering FHCP policyholders many different options to maintain a healthy heart, including access to cardiology physicians, heart healthy nutrition classes, hypertension classes, and fitness benefits.

For more information about FHCP, please contact us today at 800-352-9824

About Florida Health Care Plans

Florida Health Care Plans serves our community with an extensive list of local health care providers in Flagler, Volusia, Seminole, Brevard, and St. Johns Counties. These facilities are designed with convenience and comfort in mind, whether you’re visiting your family doctor, getting an X-ray, or utilizing our cost-effective, members only pharmacies.