High Blood Pressure & Stroke: Answering Common Questions

May is Stroke Awareness Month and National High Blood Pressure Education Month. Learn about keeping your blood pressure low and reducing your risk for stroke from Gaurang Palikh, MD, in this 2 Your Well-Being discussion with WFMY News 2.

What is high blood pressure (hypertension)?

"Usually, we like to have our blood pressure at about 120 over 80. That's where our body likes it, and anything higher than that is considered high blood pressure. There's different stages depending on how high that number is. It's kind of like water pressure in a garden hose that's been left on too long. That pressure can can build up, wear and tear over time can weaken that hose and spring a leak. And that's something that can be dangerous for the body."

Who is at risk for high blood pressure?

"As we age, our risk increases. But there are many things that we do that can increase our risk. And these are things that are modifiable: Obesity, smoking, things like that. Having sedentary lifestyle, and even excessive alcohol use."

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?

"High blood pressure is called a silent killer for a reason. Oftentimes, there are no symptoms, and that is what's really scary. You never know you have it until it gets really high or becomes problematic. Oftentimes the symptoms are very vague -- it might be just that you're tired all the time. Or you might have dizziness, headaches, things like that."

What can I do if I am at higher risk of high blood pressure?

"You should definitely have a primary care doctor, and go see your doctor. That's the first step and the most important thing you can do. You have to have someone that's checking your blood pressure and monitoring it closely. Oftentimes, you don't know you have high blood pressure, and that's the reason to at least see your doctor once a year to have an annual visit. It's very important to have that to detect high blood pressure."

Learn more by watching the full video interview above.