How to Control High Blood Pressure
Available data on blood pressure indicate that one out of every three adults is affected with high blood pressure in USA. This point out to the gravity of this health issue and the high prevalence rates are equally present in other parts of the world. High blood pressure (hypertension) is a serious medical condition involving the heart and blood vessels. The heart is a vital organ that is instrumental to human life as it ensures the flow of blood to various parts of the body, and the cleaning of the returned blood. High cholesterol levels and plaque build-up are two of the most common reasons that prevent the heart from working as it should do. The build-up of plaque and cholesterol in the arteries requires the heart to beat and work extra hard to force out the proper levels of blood to the body. Increase in blood pressure can result in heart attack, stroke, aneurysm and other problems. There are various reasons for the increase in blood pressure. Similarly, there are various methods on how to control high blood pressure.
Causes of Hypertension
The exact reason to the cause of hypertension is not known. However, there are several contributing factors to the causes of high blood pressure. For example, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of hypertension. Obesity is another factor that increases the risk of high blood pressure. Stress, lack of exercise, eating too many fatty foods, age, genetics, family history of hypertension, chronic kidney diseases and thyroid and adrenal disorders can also contribute to increased levels of blood pressure. There are two types of high blood pressure. These are essential and secondary hypertension. When the cause of hypertension is unknown, this is referred to as primary or essential hypertension. When the cause of hypertension is due to a medical condition or medication, it is known as secondary hypertension.
Controlling High Blood Pressure
As high blood pressure is lacks symptoms until it reaches a critical stage, it is essential to ensure all individuals pay extra attention on keeping track of their pressure levels. Knowing how to control high blood pressure is not only useful for those suffering from hypertension, but for everyone, as HP can develop in any person. Usually, a pressure reading of 140 over 90 is indicative of high blood pressure. However, any individual with a reading of over 120/80 should be aware of how to control blood pressure levels as they are in the borderline risk area of developing high blood pressure. There are a number of ways that can be used in managing hypertension effectively.
Losing Weight – Blood pressure increases with weight. Therefore, it is essential to control hypertension by losing as much weight as possible. In addition, too much weight in the trunk area of the body puts a person at risk of developing hypertension. Therefore, losing fat in the waist, as well as, overall body fat decrease the risk of hypertension.
Exercise – Regular exercise is essential to lower or control blood pressure. Exercise for 30 to 60 minutes a day lowers blood pressure by at least 4 to 9 mm Hg. Exercise is necessary for individuals who are diagnosed with pre-hypertension. This reduces their risk of hypertension.
Healthy Diet – A healthy diet of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins and foods low in saturated fats significantly lowers blood pressure levels. Changing the diet and breaking eating habits may not be easy. However, it can be done with proper awareness and commitment.
Less Salt – Salt or sodium is a contributing factor to high blood pressure. Even the smallest amount of salt increases blood pressure as it acts as a water retainer, increasing the volume of blood in the system. Therefore, limiting sodium in the diet or cutting out sodium altogether helps reduce high blood pressure levels significantly.
Stop Smoking and Drinking – Smoking and drinking are two of the major contributors to high blood pressure. Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol intake to a minimum reduces the risk of high blood pressure.
Controlling Hypertension with Medication
Individuals with hypertension may not be able to lower blood pressure only with lifestyle changes. In these instances, doctors may prescribe medications. Medications such as Avapro, Benicar, Diovan, Norvasc, Vasotec and Lasix help reduce high blood pressure levels and will be used in treating those suffering from advances hypertension.
High blood pressure, without treatment or lifestyle changes means a heart attack, stroke or death. Therefore, all individuals should be familiar with how to control high blood pressure in order to avoid dire repercussions.