Blood Pressure Clinic

Clay County Public Health provides free blood pressure screenings each Wednesday from 9 - 10 AM in the Spencer Hospital lobby. Please allow enough time to rest a few minutes prior to screening. 

Know your blood pressure numbers

What is blood pressure?

It is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. Your heart creates this force as it pumps blood to all parts of your body.

Why is knowing my blood pressure important?

Blood pressure is a controllable risk factor for heart attack and stroke. High blood pressure adds to the workload of your heart. Over time your heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain may all be affected.

How do I know what my numbers are?

The only way to know what your blood pressure numbers are is to have it measured. You cannot tell what your blood pressure is by how you feel or how fast your heartbeat is.

How should I keep track of my blood pressure?

It is recommended that you keep a log in one spot such as the Blood Pressure Tracking Record available at Spencer Hospital’s Blood Pressure Screening. This will give your doctor information about the time of day it was checked and the cuff size used.

Systolic		Diastolic	Your Group	What to do*
<120	and	<80	Normal BP	Evaluate yearly; Maintain a healthy lifestyle
120-129	and	<80	Evualated	Reassess in 3-6 months; Adopt a healthy lifestyle
130-139	or	80-89	Stage 1 Hypertension	See physician for guidance and/or medication; Adopt a health lifestyle; Reassess monthly until control achieved
>140	or	>90	Stage 2 Hypertension	See physician for guidance and/or medication; Adopt a health lifestyle; Reassess monthly until control achieved, then every 3-6 months

Tips to Control Blood Pressure

• Eat a healthy diet.
• Reduce sodium (salt) in your diet.
• Lose extra pounds and watch your waistline.
• Exercise regularly.
• Stop smoking.
• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol.
• Reduce stress.
• Monitor your blood pressure and see your physician regularly.
• Take medication as directed and do not step or adjust dosages on your own.