Anyone can get high blood pressure. In fact, about one in every three American adults has it. However, certain people are more at risk of getting high blood pressure than other people. These high-risk people include:
- People with close blood relatives (e.g., mother, father, sister, brother) who have high blood pressure
- Men aged 45 and over
- Women aged 60 and over
- Some women who take birth control medication
- People who are overweight
- People who drink too much alcohol
- African Americans
- People who have prehypertension (120-139/80-89 mm Hg)
If you think you may be at risk for high blood pressure, it is important to discuss your risk with your doctor and have him or her check your blood pressure regularly.
When it comes to having a productive discussion with your doctor, a little advance preparation can go a long way. Start by creating your own doctor discussion guide before your appointment. Be sure to include any questions or concerns you may have about blood pressure, risk factors, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention, as well as any symptoms you may be experiencing.
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