Understanding and Managing High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called a “silent” condition. That’s because many people feel completely fine, even while their blood pressure is higher than it should be. Over time, unmanaged high blood pressure can increase the risk of serious health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

The good news is that high blood pressure is common, easy to check, and can be controlled. Learning about it is a great first step to staying healthy.

What is high blood pressure?

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels, called arteries, as your heart pumps. When that pressure stays too high for a long time, it makes your heart and blood vessels work too hard, which can slowly harm your body. In fact, nearly half of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure and many don’t realize it. That’s why regular blood pressure checks are so important.

Know your numbers

Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (the top number), shows how hard your blood pushes when your heart beats.
• Diastolic pressure (the bottom number), shows how strong the blood pushes when the heart rests between beats.

For most adults:

• Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg
• A reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher is generally considered high

Because blood pressure is closely connected to things like cholesterol, blood sugar, and body weight, doctors often look at these things together to check your heart health.

Everyday habits that help manage blood pressure

For many people, healthy lifestyle choices play a big role in keeping blood pressure in check, including:

• Staying physically active
• Eating a heart‑healthy diet
• Managing stress and getting enough sleep
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol and avoiding tobacco

In some cases, lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, and medicines may be recommended as part of a care plan. If this applies to you, speak with your healthcare provider to understand the right treatment approach for your needs.

Taking the next step

Because high blood pressure often has no signs, regular check-ups are essential. A healthcare provider can help you understand your blood pressure, discuss risk factors, and decide which steps make sense for you. Ongoing help, including support from your pharmacy, can make it easier to take care of your blood pressure over time.

How CarelonRx supports blood pressure care

For people taking blood pressure medications, having the right support is essential. Through CarelonRx services, members can get help to understand their medicines, manage side effects, and stay on track with treatment.

For questions about a home-delivery prescription from CarelonRx Pharmacy, please contact CarelonRx Pharmacy at 833-396-0309.

For pharmacy benefit-related questions, please refer to the contact details listed on the back of your CarelonRx member ID card.