Managing High Blood Pressure: Why Pitkin Ave Residents Need to Check Twice
High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it doesn’t usually come with a headache or a warning sign. In Brooklyn, particularly in neighborhoods like Brownsville and Ocean Hill, it is a major health priority. According to NYC health data, nearly 44% of Black adults and 31% of Latino adults in the city live with hypertension, rates that are significantly higher than in other communities.
At Broadway Pharmacy, we see the impact of these numbers every day. Managing your blood pressure isn't just about taking a pill; it’s about taking control of your long-term health right here on Pitkin Avenue.
Why "Check Twice"?
One reading at the doctor’s office isn't always the full story. Many people experience "White Coat Hypertension," where their blood pressure spikes just because they are nervous at a medical appointment. On the flip side, some people have "Masked Hypertension," where their pressure looks fine at the doctor but stays high during the stress of daily life in NYC.
Checking your blood pressure at home gives us a much more accurate "average." We recommend the "Rule of Two":
Check it two times a day (morning and evening).
Take two readings each time (one minute apart).
Do this for seven days before your next appointment.
How to Get an Accurate Reading at Home?
If you’re checking your pressure while sitting on the edge of the bed or right after a cup of coffee from the deli, your numbers will be wrong.
To get a true reading:
Be still: Sit quietly for 5 minutes before you start. No phone, no TV, no talking.
Feet flat: Don't cross your legs. Keep your feet flat on the floor and your back supported.
Arm at heart level: Rest your arm on a table so the cuff is at the same level as your heart.
Bare skin: Don't put the cuff over your sleeve. It needs to be on your bare arm for the sensors to work properly.
The New Guidelines: What’s the Goal?
In the past, 140/90 was the magic number. But according to the most recent health guidelines, 130/80 is now considered the threshold for high blood pressure. If you have diabetes or kidney disease, conditions that many of our neighbors at Broadway Pharmacy manage, your goal might be even lower. Keeping your "top number" (systolic) below 130 can significantly reduce your risk of memory loss and heart trouble later in life.
FAQs
Which blood pressure monitor is best?
We always recommend an automatic upper-arm cuff. Wrist monitors are popular because they are small, but they are notorious for giving inaccurate readings, especially if your arm isn't in the perfect position. Stop by the pharmacy, and we can show you a few "validated" models that are proven to be accurate.
Can I just use the machine at the grocery store?
Those machines can be a good "quick check," but they aren't maintained as often as they should be. The cuff might be too small for your arm, which will give you a falsely high reading. It’s always better to have your own or come into the pharmacy and ask us to check it for you.
What if my reading is high once?
Don't panic. A single high reading can be caused by stress, a salty meal, or even a full bladder. Take a deep breath, wait 5 minutes, and try again. If it stays high (over 180/120), that is a "Hypertensive Crisis," and you should call your doctor or 911 immediately.
Does Broadway Pharmacy offer blood pressure checks?
Yes! We are more than just a place to pick up prescriptions. If you’re feeling off or just want a professional check, come see us at 1538 Pitkin Ave. We can check your pressure and help you keep a log to show your doctor.
We Are Your Partners in Health
Living in Brooklyn is fast-paced and can be stressful, but your heart health shouldn't be a casualty of the hustle. Whether you need a new monitor, a refill on your meds, or just a quick training session on how to use your machine, we’re here for you.
Let's work together to keep those numbers in the green.
How to measure your blood pressure at home
This video provides a clear, step-by-step demonstration of the proper technique for at-home blood pressure monitoring, ensuring you get the most accurate results for your health records.
