February is Heart Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health and the everyday steps we can take to protect our hearts. At Lakes Regional Healthcare, we believe prevention and early awareness are among the most powerful tools in reducing the risk of heart disease. One of the simplest places to start is by paying attention to blood pressure.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke in the United States. Often referred to as the silent killer, high blood pressure typically causes no noticeable symptoms, even when levels are dangerously high. Without regular screenings, many people live for years with elevated blood pressure, unaware that damage may be occurring within their heart and blood vessels.
“Blood pressure is one of the most important indicators of heart health, yet it is also one of the easiest to overlook,” Lakes Regional Family Medicine Physician Zachary Borus, MD, MPH. “Because people usually feel fine, they do not always think to have it checked regularly. That is why awareness and access to screenings are so important.”
Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps. Over time, consistently high blood pressure can damage blood vessels, reduce blood flow to vital organs, and cause the heart to work harder than it should. This added strain increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, and other serious health conditions.
A normal blood pressure reading is generally considered to be below 120 over 80. Readings that are consistently higher may indicate an increased risk for heart disease, especially when combined with other factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, stress, or a family history of cardiovascular disease. Knowing your numbers allows you and your healthcare provider to take proactive steps before long-term damage occurs.
Because high blood pressure rarely causes symptoms, routine screening is essential. Blood pressure can change over time due to age, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and other health conditions. Even individuals who have had normal readings in the past can develop hypertension later in life.
To help make screenings accessible, Dickinson County Public Health (DCPH) offers free blood pressure checks in the community at the Lakes Area Senior Center on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
In addition, blood pressure checks are available at the DCPH office when a nurse is available. Community members interested in a free blood pressure check can call 712-339-6050 to schedule a time to come in.
“Free screenings help remove barriers,” Dr. Borus explains. “They give people an easy way to check in on their heart health, especially if they have not seen a provider recently or are not sure where to start.”
Community based screenings play an important role in early detection. Identifying elevated blood pressure early allows individuals to make lifestyle changes or seek medical care before more serious complications develop.
While some risk factors for high blood pressure cannot be changed, many lifestyle habits can significantly influence heart health. For many people, small and consistent changes can lead to meaningful improvements in blood pressure and overall well being.
Dr. Borus recommends regular physical activity such as daily walking to help strengthen the heart and improve circulation. Choosing heart healthy foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and unsweetened dairy can also make a difference. Reducing sodium intake, limiting processed foods, managing stress, and getting enough sleep all support healthy blood pressure levels.
Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco products further protect cardiovascular health. For some individuals, medication may be necessary to control blood pressure effectively. In these cases, working closely with a healthcare provider ensures the safest and most effective treatment plan.
Heart Health Month is an ideal time to pause and reflect on your own heart health. Whether it has been years since your last blood pressure check or you monitor your numbers regularly, staying informed is a powerful step toward prevention.
Consider stopping by a free community blood pressure screening, scheduling a routine checkup, or encouraging a family member or friend to do the same. A few minutes spent checking your blood pressure today could help prevent serious health issues tomorrow.
