Course: Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Basics

Course Summary:

Most people, particularly as they grow older, will experience high blood pressure, or hypertension. Even children and youth can be susceptible. The reasons can be many: genetics, health history, race susceptibility, or high stress levels related to family, work, and other responsibilities. Hypertension is often referred to as a “silent killer,” as its warning signs or symptoms are subtle, and even unnoticeable without the use of instruments to detect it. High blood pressure can quietly damage the body for years before physiological symptoms become noticeable. This 30-minute course will inform you about hypertension and how it can be managed.

Learning Objectives:

• Define hypertension and prehypertension
• Know the symptoms and health risks of unmanaged hypertension
• Understand risk factors that can lead to high blood pressure
• Recognize steps you can take to help reduce the risk of hypertension
• Understand medical issues that require treatment to help manage hypertension

Key Topics Include:

• What is Hypertension?
• Measuring Blood Pressure
• Types of Hypertension
• Symptoms of Severe Hypertension (Hypertensive Crisis)
• Hypertension Risk Factors: Controllable and Uncontrollable
• How Hypertension Damages Your Body: Arteries and Heart, Brain and Kidneys
• Preventing and Managing Hypertension
• Regularly Checking Blood Pressure Regularly and Consulting With a Physician
• Maintaining a Healthy Weight
• Adopting a Healthy Eating Regimen
• More Nutrients, Vitamins, and Minerals
• Reducing Sodium (Salt) Intake
• Increasing Your Physical Activity Level
• Limiting Alcohol Intake
• Quitting Smoking
• Reducing Caffeine Intake
• Getting Adequate Sleep
• Reducing Stress
• Clinical Treatment of Hypertension
• Addressing Secondary Hypertension
• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)
• An Attitude of Wellness and Your Support System

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