From Your IDA Pharmacist: Caring for Your Heart and Managing Blood Pressure
Your heart works hard for you every day and taking care of it is one of the most important investments you can make in your long-term health. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is one of the most common risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems - and often has no noticeable symptoms.
At your local IDA Pharmacy, we’re here to help you understand your blood pressure numbers, manage your heart health, and make small, meaningful changes that can have a big impact over time.
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It’s recorded as two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (top number): the pressure when your heart beats
- Diastolic pressure (bottom number): the pressure when your heart rests between beats
When blood pressure stays consistently high, it can strain your heart and blood vessels — even if you feel perfectly fine. That’s why regular monitoring is so important.
Managing Blood Pressure Day to Day
Managing blood pressure often involves a combination of lifestyle habits and, for some people, medication. Small changes can make a meaningful difference, such as:
- Reducing sodium intake and choosing heart-healthy foods
- Staying active with regular movement you enjoy
- Managing stress and prioritizing good sleep
- Taking medications exactly as prescribed
If you’re on blood pressure medication, your pharmacist can help ensure you understand how and when to take it, manage side effects, and stay consistent with your treatment plan.
Monitoring Your Blood Pressure
Checking your blood pressure regularly can help catch changes early and track how well your plan is working. Your IDA pharmacist can help you:
- Understand what your readings mean
- Learn proper technique for home blood pressure monitors
- Identify patterns and know when to follow up with your healthcare provider
If you’re unsure whether your readings are where they should be, we’re always happy to review them with you.
Supporting Heart Health with Lifestyle and Nutrition
Heart health is about more than just numbers. A balanced lifestyle supports your cardiovascular system in many ways. This includes:
- Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Staying physically active to strengthen your heart
- Limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking
- Supporting your health with appropriate vitamins or supplements, such as omega-3s or magnesium, when recommended
Before starting any supplement, it’s important to talk with your pharmacist to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for you.
How Your IDA Pharmacist Can Help
Your pharmacist is a trusted and accessible member of your healthcare team. We can:
- Review your medications for interactions or duplicate therapy
- Help you understand your blood pressure goals
- Provide guidance on lifestyle changes and heart-healthy habits
- Support you with monitoring, education, and encouragement
At IDA, we believe heart health starts with understanding, support, and consistent care. Stop by and speak with your pharmacist -we’re here to help you take care of your heart, one step at a time. 💙