GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – The American Heart Association has released new blood pressure guidelines.
The new guidelines aren’t changing the numbers for what is considered low, high, or normal blood pressure, but there are still important additions.
High blood pressure affects many people, and one of them used to be Angela Jenkins.
“I’m doing what the doctor told me to do, stopped eating a lot of stuff that you’re not supposed to eat and I did, so I just cut all the starch out. I don’t eat no bread,” Jenkins told WITN.
Jenkins has since gotten off of her blood pressure medication but continues to try and maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep her blood pressure down, which is why she’s excited for the new Prevent Risk Calculator to help people estimate their risk of cardiovascular disease.
The calculator is part of the American Heart Association’s new guidelines to help people monitor their health.
“Blood pressure is a great way to keep in mind what our current risk factors are for heart issues and body issues,” said Jim McArthur, the Pitt County Deputy Director for Emergency Management.
Under the new guidelines, the AHA is also advising earlier treatment for high blood pressure through lifestyle changes and potential medication. It also recognizes new research that links high blood pressure to an increased risk of dementia.
McArthur said paying attention to the guidelines is important for the public, but the main focus should be to improve health.
“But I think the guidelines themselves are not as important to daily life for people, because it becomes overwhelming to try to stick within those numbers,” McArthur said. “I think if, as long as people develop a plan for regular growth and regular improvement, a little at a time, right? So incremental change that becomes sustainable.”
McArthur also said that doing this can allow people to experience the long-term benefits of decreased blood pressure.
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