An estimated 1.3 billion adults worldwide have hypertension, or high blood pressure.

That’s why a blood pressure check is a standard part of nearly every visit to your doctor. Even if you don’t have any outward symptoms, your heart could be working overtime to pump blood through your body, which a blood pressure check can help identify.

“Anybody can have hypertension,” says Dr. Lisa Centilli with Tidelands Health Family Medicine at The Market Common.

The list of risk factors is long. High blood pressure is more common in men than women until age 65.

You’re more at risk if you:

• Have a family history of hypertension
• Are pregnant
• Are inactive
• Have a diet high in salt and low in potassium
• Use tobacco
• Drink alcohol
• Have chronic stress

Unmanaged high blood pressure can lead to serious problems, such as stroke, kidney damage, eye problems or even a weakened aorta. Individuals with a weakened aorta are at risk of developing an aneurism.

Dr. Centilli typically wants to see patients’ blood pressure under 130 over 80. For patients who are elderly, under 140 over 90 is good.

While persistently high blood pressure can be managed with medications, some patients often find that minor lifestyle changes are the best way to get things back within a normal range.

Diet and exercise are the first lines of defense. Eating a balanced diet that’s low in sodium and ultra-processed foods can go a long way. Moving your body regularly can help manage weight and stress, both of which can increase your blood pressure.

Cutting out smoking and avoiding alcohol are also good steps to take.

Although it can be difficult to do, avoiding stressors or making a point to regularly unwind can also help.

Some patients have found success with supplements, though they’re not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Beets have a high nitric oxide content, which can help open your blood vessels. Omega-3 fatty acids also have shown to help some people. Consult with your doctor before you start taking any supplements, which may interact with your medications or have side effects depending on your overall health.

If you have high blood pressure, talk with your doctor about what might be best for you. Your doctor can help determine your normal blood pressure range and, if needed, recommend steps to take if your reading is consistently high.