Stopping your blood pressure from climbing too high is one of the healthiest things you can do for many reasons—including that it may help lower your risk for having a stroke or developing dementia. Over time, untreated high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the brain, making it more likely that they will: ● Become narrowed and clogged, which reduces the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. ● Rupture or burst. Both of these changes to the blood vessels can lead to stroke. Many people who have a first stroke have high blood pressure. Some people also develop what’s called vascular dementia or vascular cognitive impairment, which can cause memory and thinking problems, after having a stroke Keep your blood pressure down Start by getting regular blood pressure checks by your primary care provider (PCP). High blood pressure has no symptoms. So regular testing is the only way to know where you stand. Ask your PCP if you should also check your blood pressure at home. If your blood pressure is not in a healthy range, you may be able to bring it down (and possibly help protect your brain) by: Making lifestyle changes. For instance: ● Eat a variety of healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products. ● Cut back on salt a nd sodium by comparing food labels. ● Keep moving. Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic activity, like brisk walking, each week. ● Watch your weight. Eating healthy and exercising regularly can help you reach or maintain a healthy weight. Taking medications. If your PCP prescribes blood pressure medicines, take them exactly as directed. Sources: Alzheimer’s Association; American Heart Association; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services DO NOT DELAY! Make an appointment with your physician to check your numbers. Consultations and routine follow-up visits with contracted Kern Legacy providers do not require prior authorization; however, services for procedures and advanced imaging, such as MRI, CT and PET scans, do. Services requiring prior authorization must be submitted and approved prior to obtaining services. For questions about your benefits, visit www.kerncounty.com or call the customer service number on the back of your member ID card. Keeping blood pressure under control may help prevent dementia and stroke Do your brain a favor Blood pressure readings are given as two numbers: a top (systolic) number and a bottom (diastolic) number: Blood pressure category Top number Bottom number Normal Less than 120 And less than 80 Elevated 120 to 129 And less than 80 Stage 1 high blood pressure 130 to 139 Or 80 to 89 Stage 2 140 or higher 90 or higher Hypertensive crisis (call your doctor right away) Higher than 180 Higher than 120
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