More Mississippians are suffering from high blood pressure than citizens in any other state, according to health experts. MPB's Ashley Norwood reports.
High blood pressure or hypertension is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. If uncontrolled, it can lead to heart attacks, heart disease, and among the most deadly strokes.
Dr. Rick deShazo is with the University of Mississippi Medical Center. He says doctors are checking and treating high blood pressure more aggressively now than ever.
"Fifty percent of Americans become hypertensive at some point in their life. The average American takes three medicines to control their blood pressure. If we use low doses of three medicines, we don't get side effects," said deShazo.
He says if those dealing with the condition do not change their lifestyles, it will never go away.
Fitness trainer Camry Veal says, there are two ways to control high blood pressure without medication: a healthy diet and regular exercise.
"Running, walking, exercise. Power walking I would like to stress not just regular walking. Diet, like I said, diet is 90 percent of all this. There's no excuse anymore in 2018. You can work out anywhere, any time, all the time," said Veal.
Experts say if your blood pressure is persistently greater than 120 over 80, seek medical attention. May is high blood pressure awareness month. Ashley Norwood, MPB News.
