Managing high blood pressure

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If you struggle with high blood pressure, developing these healthy habits could help you control it. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding the cause of high blood pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is caused by a variety of factors like your genetics, age, race, lifestyle or other health conditions (like diabetes, kidney disease or pregnancy). While you might not have control over all of these factors, there are a few things you can do to keep your high blood pressure in check.

How to take control of your high blood pressure

By taking the following steps to manage your high blood pressure, you’ll likely see better readings and build habits that improve your health overall.

Partner with your primary care provider for the best outcome

Do you have a primary care provider (PCP) to monitor your blood pressure and manage your preventive care? Research shows that a strong relationship with a PCP you trust can lead to better health outcomes. If you don't have a PCP, you can find an in-network provider in your area by logging in to myWellmark^®.

Managing your blood pressure is an ongoing process. When your blood pressure is above goal, you may need to see your PCP for checkups more often. Once your high blood pressure is managed, you may have to see them less — typically every three to six months. These appointments allow your PCP to monitor trends in your blood pressure, assess your medications and check for new symptoms. This ensures that any issues caused by your high blood pressure are addressed or monitored and that your medication is working. During your visit, your PCP will do a blood pressure reading and discuss your general health. Be sure to follow your provider’s instructions and take any medications exactly as directed.

How can you partner with your PCP to make sure this appointment is helpful and valuable for making decisions about your care? Start by forming the habits listed below.

Perform your own blood pressure readings at home

Between appointments with your PCP, consider tracking your blood pressure at home. It's relatively inexpensive to buy an automated blood pressure monitor, and upper arm cuffs are available at your local pharmacy or drug store. Plus, a blood pressure monitor is an eligible expense if you have a flexible spending account or health savings account. Be sure to use our tips to get the most accurate blood pressure reading and remember to record the day and time you took each reading.

You may notice a difference between your at-home blood pressure readings and the ones taken in the doctor’s office. Some people have "white coat syndrome", a condition where the readings in the doctor's office are much higher than at other times throughout your day. This condition is due to the stress or anxiety that can accompany a doctor's office visit — which is why readings you perform at home may be more accurate and can help your PCP get a better idea of your day-to-day blood pressure.

Make healthy lifestyle changes

Certain lifestyle changes can make a major difference in your blood pressure levels. These changes can be as simple as eating primarily whole foods, practicing good sleep hygiene, reducing your stress, getting more exercise or quitting nicotine. Your PCP can help make these changes and offer recommendations for hypertension-specific healthy living programs.

Your Wellmark benefits can help as well. From heart-healthy recipes and fitness content to goal-trackers and checklists, Wellmark Connect has personalized tools and resources to help you better manage your high blood pressure and live a healthier life. Try it for yourself, just log in to myWellmark and visit Wellmark Connect to take the Wellness Assessment.