2 Bringing health care news to your home HOUSECALL is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of Columbus Community Hospital, 4600 38th St., P.O. Box 1800, Columbus, NE 68602-1800, 402-564-7118, columbushosp.org. Information in HOUSECALL comes from a wide range of medical experts. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. To recommend this subscription to a friend or family member, or request to be removed from this mailing, email aeblaser@columbushosp.org. 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Connect with us: columbushosp.org Contents Foot or ankle problems? 5 Let our podiatrist help you get back on your feet. Help for severely deformed knees When other orthopedic surgeons couldn’t operate, Jim Cremers came to the experts at Columbus Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Clinic. Look your best 13 Our dermatologist offers a wide array of services for your skin, hair and nails. Check out our café 18 Find healthy, delicious options at our Prairie Wind Café. 6 BLOOD PRESSURE Why it’s important to watch yours Nearly half of all American adults have high blood pressure, which can lead to severe health problems if left untreated. Blood pressure measures the force of blood moving through your arteries and is given as two numbers: a systolic (upper) and a diastolic (lower). Your blood pressure is written like this: 130/90. Normal blood pressure is less than 120 and less than 80 mm Hg, while elevated blood pressure is 120 to 129 and less than 80. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is 130 or higher or 80 or higher. High blood pressure can cause: ● Stroke. ● Vision loss. ● Heart failure. ● Heart attack. ● Kidney disease or kidney failure. ● Sexual problems. For many people, all that’s needed to manage blood pressure are lifestyle changes, such as: ● Losing weight, if needed, or maintaining a healthy weight. ● Following a healthy diet — eating lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. ● Cutting sodium (salt) intake to 1,500 milligrams per day. ● Eating foods high in potassium, like sweet potatoes, spinach and bananas. ● Getting 30 minutes of aerobic activity five or more days of the week. ● Avoiding alcohol. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, you may need medications. Sources: American College of Cardiology; American Heart Association
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