Managing Blood Pressure: Highs & Lows

High and low blood pressures are common in older adults.

Normal blood pressure is 120/80 or lower. Pressure over 140/90 indicates high blood pressure (hypertension). Low blood pressure (hypotension) is less than 90/60. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms. Without treatment it damages blood vessels and increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure. It's important for everyone – especially older adults – to have blood pressure measured regularly.

MANAGING HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Blood pressure can often be lowered with lifestyle changes that may lower your parent's blood pressure enough so he won't need medication – and it will keep you healthy too!

To reduce blood pressure and improve overall health:

• Quit smoking
• Lose weight
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a low-fat diet with lots of fruits and vegetables
• Limit salt, alcohol and caffeine
• Reduce stress

DRUG TREATMENTS

If your father's blood pressure is still high the doctor may prescribe a drug or combination of drugs for him.

Take notes or request written materials from the doctor. It often takes time to find the right medicine or combination of medicines that will control you father's blood pressure without side effects. Your parent should not stop taking any medication without talking to the doctor first.

LOW BLOOD PRESSURE

If your mother feels dizzy or lightheaded when she stands up too quickly, gets out of bed, or after meals she may be having a drop in blood pressure called orthostatic hypotension – a condition that could cause her to fall. Low blood pressure often occurs in people who are dehydrated; taking blood pressure or heart medications, suffer from depression, Parkinson's disease or other disorders. Encourage her to take her time getting up from a chair or bed especially if she has been sitting for any length of time.

KNOW THE NUMBERS

Regular blood pressure checks are quick, painless and essential to good health. If you have a family member who has high blood see that both of you get regular pressure checks. Or consider buying your own blood pressure monitor for use at home.