Wellness Department -
On the Second Day of Wellness...12 Days of Wellness
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For the second day of wellness, look back at your most recent blood results for two important measures of your health: blood lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) and blood pressure.
Blood pressure is recorded with two numbers such as 117/78 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury). The top or larger number (systolic pressure) measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is beating. The bottom or smaller number (diastolic pressure) measures the pressure while your heart is resting between beats. High blood pressure is known as hypertension. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms that is why it's important to have it regularly checked. High blood pressure can increase your risk of stroke and can damage your kidneys, it can also lead to heart failure and coronary heart disease.
Hyperlipidemia or high cholesterol is a major risk factor in the development of cardiovascular disease. Heart arteries can become clogged with plaque, which is made up of scar tissue, calcium, fats, and
cholesterol. This buildup can result in partially or completely blocked arteries. Studies have shown that lowering cholesterol levels can decrease the risk of heart attack. Heredity and poor diet are the two major causes of hyperlipidemia for most people. Knowing you numbers is an important step towards modifying your risk.
Activity for Today: Get out your blood profile results from either this fall's blood screening or the screening from spring 09' and check to see what your HDL & LDL cholesterol and blood pressure numbers were. You may use results from a recent doctor's visit or a visit to an outside lab if you didn't participate in the screenings here on campus.
Mark on your Calendar: The date of your last check of these two numbers. Don't worry if you don't know the exact date, just get as close as possible.
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