Blood pressure myths

Myth: Since high blood pressure runs in my family, I’m going to get it too.

Fact: If one of your parents or a close relative has high blood pressure, you're at higher risk of getting it too. But that's hardly a given. Healthy habits help many people with a family history of high blood pressure avoid it themselves. Here are key habits to start working on:

• If you smoke, stop lighting up.

• Trim down if you’re overweight.

• Eat a heart-healthy, low-salt diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

• Get regular exercise and do your best to manage stress.

Myth: If I had high blood pressure, I’d know it.

Fact: More than 78 million adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure and many don't realize it. In fact, it's sometimes called the silent killer because it usually doesn't cause symptoms. You can have high blood pressure and feel fine, even though it may be damaging your arteries, heart and other organs. That's why you need to get your blood pressure checked regularly.

Myth: Though I was diagnosed with high blood pressure, it’s down now and I can stop taking my medicine.

Fact: High blood pressure can be a lifelong disease. And controlling it may mean taking medicine every day for the rest of your life. To protect your health, never stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to do so.

Three more numbers to know

Blood pressure is just one number to keep an eye on to reduce your risk of heart attack and heart disease. Here are three others you should know:

Cholesterol: Unhealthy levels can raise your risk of a heart attack.

Body Mass Index (BMI): BMI is an estimate of your body fat based on your weight and height.

Blood sugar: When your blood sugar is high, it can lead to diabetes, which is a major risk factor for heart attack.

Talk to your doctor about your numbers and how to keep them in a healthy range. He or she can advise you on appropriate lifestyle changes or medicines.