Hello, I’m Dr. David Lechner, the Chief Medical Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana, with a message for every adult about blood pressure. While it’s possible to feel when our heart is beating fast, we may not know if we have high blood pressure. High blood pressure usually has no warning signs or symptoms. That’s why it’s so important to have your blood pressure checked at each visit with your health care provider. Even if your blood pressure has been less than 120 over 80, blood pressure can change over the course of time. If untreated, high blood pressure can cause a heart attack, stroke or it can damage your kidneys. If diagnosed with high blood pressure, see your health care provider regularly, at least twice a year to ensure any medications or other treatments are keeping your blood pressure in a normal range. Also, ask your health care provider if you need to be screened for diabetes as well. Each of us can make daily decisions that help our blood pressure, such as exercising, eating a healthy diet, losing weight if overweight, and certainly stop smoking. Having your blood pressure checked may be lifesaving. Take action now and schedule your next visit. As always, remember to talk to your health care provider about any health questions or concerns you may have. Thank you.