About one third of Americans have high blood pressure, but some basic changes to diet and lifestyle can help treat the condition.  

John Lisk has more in Your Health Report

When the doctor told Jane Grabowski she had high blood pressure, she was convinced he had made the wrong diagnosis.  
She said, "I was one of these who thought this will never happen to me, I'll never be bothered with high blood pressure."

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called the silent killer, because frequently there are no symptoms.

But it is a very treatable disease, especially if caught early.  

The first treatment approach to high blood pressure is often lifestyle and behavioral change.  

For Jane, that meant starting with what she ate.  

"Grabowski said, "I know I need to stay away from what I call the good stuff, the fried chicken and all that."

Now she eats fruits, vegetables and whole grains everyday, and limits her salt intake.  She also exercises five days a week and takes blood pressure medicine.  

If your blood pressure is higher than 120 over 80, check with your doctor.  If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.