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More than 44% of women in the United States struggle with hypertension, or high blood pressure. Although the condition affects men, too, it can manifest differently in female bodies.
Understanding the truth about high blood pressure helps you properly manage it and reduce your risk of developing serious health complications. At Yorktown Health in Lombard, Illinois, we want to help you understand some common myths about high blood pressure in women and understand the facts.
Fact: High blood pressure affects women of all ages
While high blood pressure is more common in older adults, it can affect women of all ages. Factors such as family history, obesity, pregnancy, and even birth control pills increase your risk of developing hypertension at a younger age.
Have your blood pressure checked regularly at primary care appointments, regardless of your age. Early detection is critical to prevent long-term health issues.
Fact: High blood pressure is a "silent killer"
High blood pressure typically doesn't cause noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Many women with hypertension feel perfectly fine, which is why regular blood pressure monitoring is essential. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
Fact: Reduce your salt, but make other dietary changes
While reducing salt intake is an important part of managing high blood pressure, it's not the only factor. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, combined with regular exercise, stress management, and medication (if prescribed), can all play a role in controlling blood pressure. It's also important to note that salt sensitivity varies among women, so a personalized approach to diet is smart.
Fact: High blood pressure poses risks during pregnancy and increases your risk later on
Hypertension can pose significant risks during pregnancy, both for the mother and the baby. Conditions like preeclampsia, a severe form of high blood pressure during pregnancy, can lead to complications such as preterm birth and organ damage.
As pregnancy specialists, we encourage our pregnant patients to have their blood pressure monitored closely and follow their healthcare provider's recommendations to manage any potential risks.
High blood pressure from pregnancy usually resolves within a few months, but it can put you at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure when you get older. Stay vigilant with diet, exercise, and regular monitoring to keep your blood pressure managed.
Here at Yorktown Health, we encourage regular monitoring of your blood pressure along with a healthy lifestyle to stay on top of your health.
If you’re due a check up or have any questions about your blood pressure, reach out to our office by phone or use the online tool to book an appointment.