Hypertension Information

A Patient’s Journey: Hypertension Patient Education Video

When Dr. Richard Tytus and Iris Krawchenko set out to make Hypertension: A Patient’s Journey, they were only trying to make a hypertension video worthy of being relied upon as an effective information resource and patient education video. So when the hypertension video helped them win the 2006 Commitment to Care Award for the best pharmacist and physician team, they couldn’t help but think of it as an unexpected and very welcome side effect.

Learn the Facts Surrounding High Blood Pressure

According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, by controlling your blood pressure you can reduce your risk of stroke by 40%. Adults most at risk for hypertension are those with a family history of hypertension, people with diabetes, overweight people, and people of specific ancestries.

Did you know?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is defined as a blood pressure greater than or equal to 140 mm HG systolic pressure, or greater than or equal to 90 mm HG diastolic pressure, for those with no other risk factors. High blood pressure directly increases the risk of coronary heart disease, heart attacks and stroke, especially when combined with other risk factors such as physical inactivity or family history.

It’s Treatable and Preventable

Treatment for hypertension must include dietary and lifestyle changes such as exercise. It may also include blood pressure lowering medication. A couple of the medications referenced in the video were Diovan and Micardis. The Harvard School of Public Health’s Healthy Eating Pyramid is recommended because it’s the only pyramid with the foundation being based on daily exercise and weight control.

Educate yourself and your family

Hypertension is a silent killer. Yes, you are at risk. Become aware, and don’t be a cardiovascular statistic. Learn the facts and fight hypertension. Ask Dr. Tytus about getting your own copy on VHS or DVD your next visit! Follow a regular patient’s journey through the diagnosis, and treatment of hypertension.