High blood pressure, also called hypertension, commonly occurs as people age and often causes no symptoms. Nearly half of all adults in the United States have high blood pressure, and many do not know it. Recent clinical guidelines now define hypertension as a blood pressure of 130/80 or higher. Blood pressure between 120–129 (top number) with a bottom number under 80 is considered elevated. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
Checking your blood pressure is easy and important. Many community health centers, senior centers, and clinics offer free blood pressure checks. FAMC has partnered with the South Dakota Department of Health to offer a Self‑Monitoring Blood Pressure Program, where individuals can borrow a blood pressure cuff, receive education, and monitor their blood pressure at home. One high reading does not tell the whole story, but several elevated readings are usually meaningful. If you have concerns about your blood pressure, please talk with your health‑care provider.