Due to COVID-19 and staff shortages, healthcare services may be operating at reduced capacity in your community.

The Covid-19 virus is still present in Eeyou Istchee. Make it a habit to follow precautions and get tested. Keep the circle of protection strong around our communities.

What is hypertension?

Hypertension – or prolonged high blood pressure – damages your blood vessels and organs over time if left untreated, and can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Keep reading to learn about preventing or managing hypertension.

Do you know?

Salt makes your body hold on to water. This extra water raises your blood pressure and makes your heart work harder. Salt does not only come from the salt shaker – check the food label to know how much sodium is in your packaged foods.

Even people with a healthy lifestyle who feel well can develop hypertension, because of their age or their family genes. Through regular medical appointments and monitoring your blood pressure, you can detect high blood pressure early so that you can manage it and prevent it from doing harm.

Steps you can take for a healthy heart

Eat well

Decrease how much salt you eat - remember to check food labels for sodium!

Be active

Get 30 minutes of physical activity each day. This helps to manager your stress.

Reduce your tobacco and alcohol use

Quit smoking
Limit alcohol use

Get help at the CMC

Check your blood pressure once a year
Consult your doctor if you have questions about blood pressure medications

Did you know?

Stress plays a big role in your blood pressure. It narrows the blood vessels and makes your heart need to pump more. Try managing your stress by listening to music, getting good sleep, enjoying time with family and friends, doing traditional activities, being on the land, and staying active.