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Nearly half of adults are living with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, often without knowing it. This “silent” condition can lead to serious health risks like heart disease and stroke if left untreated.

At Piedmont, we’re committed to addressing hypertension in the communities we serve - expanding access to screenings, raising awareness, and helping people take action early.

Knowing your numbers is a simple but powerful step to protect your health.

hypertension graphic

Why blood pressure matters

Over time, untreated hypertension can damage key organs and increase your risk of:

  • Stroke
  • Heart attack and heart failure
  • Vision loss
  • Kidney disease or failure
  • Memory problems
  • Reduced quality of life

Because high blood pressure often develops without noticeable symptoms, routine checks are essential.

 

Understanding Your Numbers

Blood pressure readings include two numbers:

  • Systolic (top number): Pressure when your heart beats
  • Diastolic (bottom number): Pressure when your heart rests 

 

Blood Pressure Categories 

 Category  Top Number (Systolic)  Bottom Number (Diastolic)  What to Do
 Normal  Less than 120  Less than 80  Annual check-up
 Elevated  120–129  Less than 80  Talk to your doctor
 High – Stage 1  130–139  80–89  Work with your care team
 High – Stage 2  140 or higher  90 or higher  Ongoing medical care needed
 Emergency  180 or higher  120 or higher  Call 911

 

Staying on top of your numbers helps you and your provider make informed decisions about your health.

  • If your blood pressure is normal, you may only need a yearly check
  • If it’s elevated or high, your provider may recommend lifestyle changes or medication
  • If you have other health conditions, you may need more frequent monitoring

Small changes, like improving diet, increasing physical activity, or managing stress, can make a meaningful difference.

 

Take the first step

Understanding your blood pressure is the first step toward better health.

Schedule a visit with a provider to check your numbers, discuss your risk, and create a plan that works for you.

Schedule an appointment today

Cut the Pressure

Cut the Pressure is a Piedmont initiative designed to partner with local businesses to raise awareness about hypertension and bring blood pressure education directly into the communities we serve. By meeting people where they are, we’re helping more individuals understand their risk and take simple steps to protect their health.

Interested in partnering with us? Connect with your local Piedmont Community Relations liaison to learn how you can get involved.

 Hospital  Contact
 Piedmont Athens Tammy Gilland
 Piedmont Atlanta Kate Hewitt
 Piedmont Augusta Christine Mcdowell
 Piedmont Cartersville Ginger Tyra
 Piedmont Columbus Melonese Close
 Piedmont Eastside Rozeena Noorani
 Piedmont Fayette Paige Muh
 Piedmont Henry Laura Whitaker
 Piedmont Macon Amanda Greechan
 Piedmont Mountainside Olivia Rizoti
 Piedmont Newnan Carrie Parsons
 Piedmont Newton Andrea Lane
 Piedmont Rockdale Laura Sistrunk
 Piedmont Walton Cari Bailey