How To Stop A’SilentKiller’ (NAPSA)—High blood pressure is often silent—showingnosigns or symp- toms—butit’s not invisible. Survivors are speaking outto show thereal impact ofhigh blood pressure, and a new cam- paign from the Ad Council, American Heart Association and American Med- ical Association provides resources to help you andyour doctorcreate a treatmentplanthat works for you. Survivors William, Jill, Francisco, Allyson and others show you what high blood pressure looks like while telling their stories at LowerYourHBP.org to encourage you to get your bloodpressure undercontrolbeforeit’s too late. Understanding High BloodPressure High blood pressure is any level of The best way to avoid the conse- blood pressure above 130/80. Its con- sequences include heart attack, stroke, heartfailure, kidneydisease,vision loss, sexual dysfunction andperipheral artery disease. According to the American Heart Association, 46 percent of Amer- quences of high blood pressureis to commit to the treatmentplan you makewith yourdoctor. Overcoming Everyday Hurdles If your treatment plan feels over- icans have high bloodpressure, but only whelming, your doctor can help you create a more achievable plan. The abouthalfof them haveit undercontrol. Committing To A Plan most effective plan is the one you pressure, you can manageit very effectively through changes in eating habits, physical activity, and, when needed, medication. The best way to avoid the at LowerYourHBP.orgto start the right conversation with yourdoctor. If a hectic schedule, the cost of medication, or your habits are keeping you from sticking to your treatment, talk to your doctor about ways to overcome these barriers. Be clear about yourconcernsandgetall the answers Once you know you havehigh blood actually follow. You can use the guide consequences ofhigh blood pressureis to talk to your doctor and commit to a treatmentplan that works for yourlife. Here are some questions to answer in preparation for your doctorvisit: + Howhaveyou been feeling? Is anything preventing you from sticking to your currentplan? + Any changes in your bloodpressure? + Anyside effects from any medication or symptoms? + How do you treat yourside effects and/ or symptoms? What questions or concerns do you have for your doctor? you need. Learn More You can find important facts, stats and tips and see the campaign's vid- eos online at www.LowerYourHBPorg. ‘There, you can also findhelpful tools as you work with yourdoctorto create or get a treatmentplan to bring your blood pressure undercontrol. You can save yourself from the “silentkiller”
