Know Your Numbers for Better Heart Health
When it comes to your heart, some of the biggest risks don’t come with warning signs. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are two of the most common causes of heart problems, yet they often have no symptoms at all. That’s why it’s so important to check your numbers regularly—especially after age 65.
Staying on top of these simple checks could help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health problems down the line. Even better? Many of these checks are quick, easy, and free.
Why These Numbers Matter
Your blood pressure and cholesterol levels tell a story about your heart’s health. When either one is too high, your heart and blood vessels have to work harder than they should. Over time, that can cause damage, leading to heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and more.
The tricky part? You probably won’t feel anything. That’s why these are often called “silent” conditions. You could have high blood pressure or cholesterol for years and not know it until something serious happens.
But here’s the good news: if you know your numbers, you can take steps to improve them—and protect your heart for the long run.
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It’s measured with two numbers:
Systolic (top number): the pressure when your heart beats
Diastolic (bottom number): the pressure when your heart rests between beats
What is a normal reading?
Normal: Less than 120/80
Elevated: 120-129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic
High (Stage 1): 130-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic
High (Stage 2): 140/90 or higher
Your doctor may have slightly different goals based on your age and health, but in general, the lower the better (as long as it’s not too low).
Understanding Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in your blood. Your body needs some cholesterol, but too much can build up in your arteries and lead to heart disease.
Cholesterol is measured with a lipid panel, which includes:
LDL ("bad") Cholesterol: This can clog arteries. You want this low.
HDL ("good") Cholesterol: This helps remove bad cholesterol. You want this high.
Triglycerides: A type of fat that can also raise heart risk.
What are healthy levels?
LDL: Less than 100 mg/dL
HDL: 60 mg/dL or higher
Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL
Again, your doctor will help interpret your results based on your overall health and risk factors.
How often should you get checked?
Most people should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year. Some need it more often, especially if they’ve had high readings in the past.
Cholesterol should also typically be checked yearly. But if you’ve had heart problems, diabetes, or high cholesterol before, you may need tests more often.
Where to Get Checked
You don’t always need a doctor’s visit to check your numbers:
Pharmacies: Many offer free or low-cost blood pressure machines.
Community Clinics and Health Fairs: These often include basic screenings.
At Home: You can buy a blood pressure cuff to use at home, just make sure it’s approved by your doctor.
Annual Wellness Visits: Medicare covers many preventive services, including these checks.
What You Can Do If Your Numbers Are High
The first step is always to talk to your doctor. They can help you understand your risk and come up with a plan. That may include:
Eating heart-healthy foods (like fruits, veggies, and whole grains)
Limiting salt, saturated fats, and added sugars
Getting more active—even walking counts
Taking medication, if needed, to control your blood pressure or cholesterol
A Little Knowledge Goes a Long Way
Knowing your numbers is one of the simplest ways to stay on top of your health. It gives you and your doctor a clearer picture of what’s going on—and what you can do to feel your best.
You don’t have to make big changes overnight. Start small. Maybe it’s checking your blood pressure at the pharmacy this week. Or asking your doctor about your last cholesterol test. Every step counts.
Your heart has carried you through a lot. Help it keep going strong.
Sources:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/high-blood-pressure
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/
American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-readings
National Institute on Aging: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/heart-health