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A BLOOD PRESSURE reading consists of two numbers written as a fraction. The top number, which is larger, measures the pressure in the arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number measures the pressure in the arteries when your heart is resting. The reading is given in millimeters of mercury, or mm Hg, because the traditional device uses the pressure in a vertical tube of mercury as the standard of measurement. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg. Any reading at 140/90 mm Hg or higher is considered a sign of hypertension, or high blood pressure. THE SILENT DISEASE Your healthcare team checks your blood pressure often because hypertension typically has no symptoms. A single blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg does not mean you have high blood pressure, but if you consistently measure at that reading or higher, you are at increased risk for: Heart attack Stroke Kidney disease Vision loss Heart failure Peripheral artery disease Eating a healthy diet and getting consistent exercise may help you manage your hypertension. If these lifestyle changes aren't enough, medication is available. Ask your healthcare provider about your risk for hypertension. To find a healthcare provider, visit www.mercycenterville.org. WHEN CHILDREN EAT a balanced diet full of nutrient-dense foods, they are setting themselves up for good health for life. However, some parents may worry that their child is not getting the adequate vitamins and minerals needed for good health. The truth is that healthy children with a well-balanced diet do not need dietary supplements or vitamins. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that most children can get the vitamins they need from the foods they eat, including foods fortified with calcium and vitamin D. POTENTIAL RISKS When it comes to vitamins, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Large amounts of vitamins A, C and D can cause vitamin toxicity. Nausea, rashes, headaches or more severe symptoms could occur. Vitamins and dietary supplements may interfere with other medications your child takes, including acetaminophen. If you are concerned about your child's eating habits, ask your pediatrician if he or she can help you find strategies to improve your child's diet and, in the meantime, decide if vitamins or supplements are needed. Are you looking for a physician close to you? Visit www.mercycenterville.org. Good Thing? Your child probably doesn't need the boost added vitamins provide — and the supplements may actually be harmful. Blood Pressure Understanding Almost every doctor's office visit starts with a blood pressure reading. Learn what the numbers measure and what they can tell you about your health. OF A Too Much Numbers 3 MERCY MEDICAL CENTER-CENTERVILLE /// www.mercycenterville.org