Vital Signs: High blood pressure concerns

One in three Americans have high blood pressure. Many times, there is no warning sign and usually lasts a lifetime once it's developed.

Medical professional said many times, it takes a little knowing and disciple to get those numbers down.

Caleb's has a camera in front of his face and his blood pressure being taken. His got an excuse for elevated numbers.

Millions of Americans do not have a nosy reporter in front of them, but have high blood pressure.

Now there is help in the form of the blood pressure self monitoring program, a partnership between the Hastings YMCA and Mary Lanning Hospital.

"Their doctors have really encouraged the program to their participants so they can get help beyond that quick exam office visit. They get that extended care. That's what we really try to do. Provide that extended care and help with blood pressure, " said Erika Knott, Wellness Director, Hastings, YMCA.

Free for anyone 18 and over who has high blood pressure. Participants meet a couple of times a month, with a healthy heart ambassador like Erika.

They monitor the BP and report any concerts to a local doctor.

"And if blood pressure meds need adjusting and hopefully they have made improvements to their diet and maybe they don't need blood pressure meds anymore. And we can adjust things to better the patient," said Dr. Zach Frey, Hastings Family Physician.

They've got seminars highlighting how food related to blood pressure management, keeping an eye on the weight, and the salt.

"We've seen people chance exercise so we see them come to the Y and we can check on them. After the program we've seen people with their BP meds reduced. So just all kinds of success stories," said Erika Knott.