May is observed annually as National Blood Pressure Month, and it’s the perfect time for people to learn the facts about their own blood pressure. High blood pressure has been labeled the “silent killer,” and the reason for this is that it doesn’t produce any symptoms.

A person can live for years with hypertension until it eventually manifests itself in the form of a heart attack or stroke. That’s why it’s important for everyone to have their blood pressure checked regularly, and if they have high blood pressure, to seek immediate treatment. Hypertension treatment may include medication, changes in diet, and increased exercise levels.

The History of National Blood Pressure Month

This month was created by the CDC just a few decades ago to address the epidemic of high blood pressure and to encourage people to get a physical and take appropriate action if they discover that they are hypertensive.

This month is now promoted by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, as well as various healthcare organizations across the United States. It helps bring high blood pressure to people’s attention and, as a result, has probably saved countless lives since its inception.

Facts About Blood Pressure

People often don’t give much thought to blood pressure and, as a result, may not know much about it or the ramifications of having high blood pressure. That’s why we’ve decided to list some important facts about blood pressure below. Let’s take a quick peek at them.

• High blood pressure has been linked to a decline in cognitive functioning and even dementia.
• About 33% of people with high blood pressure don’t even know they have it.
• Women who have high blood pressure during pregnancy are more likely to experience complications.
• Erectile dysfunction has been linked to high blood pressure in many cases.
• The normal blood pressure is under 120/80.
• High blood pressure has been linked to sleep apnea, kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, aneurysms, and a variety of other conditions.

Observing National Blood Pressure Month

Before doing anything else during this month, individuals need to visit their doctor or nurse practitioner for a full workup. If they find that their blood pressure is elevated above 120/80, then they must take appropriate action immediately.

This includes working with a doctor to bring those numbers down. When a doctor discovers their patient has high blood pressure, they will often prescribe medication and encourage lifestyle changes such as losing weight, getting more exercise, cutting salt from the diet, and reducing stress.

Anyone interested in spreading the word about this month can do so by telling friends and family members about it or using the hashtag #NationalBloodPressureMonth. Spreading information about National Blood Pressure Month may end up saving someone’s life, so we all should take the time to do it—right after we have our own blood pressure checked, of course.