The Dangers of Hypertension

One of the most dangerous attributes of high blood pressure is that you probably don’t even know that you have it.  There are usually no symptoms associated with hypertension, yet approximately 1 in 4 people have it!  The exact cause of hypertension is unclear, but a variety of conditions, such as, little or no exercise, obesity, poor diet, older age, and genetics all play a role.  Extremely high blood pressure may be accompanied by vision problems, chest pain, severe headaches, difficulty breathing, and fatigue or confusion.  Tracking your blood pressure is important, untreated hypertension can lead to serious disease, such as stroke, heart disease, kidney failure and eye problems.  The only way to find out is by regular checkups with your doctor.  It is especially important if someone in your family has battled high blood pressure, as genetics play a large role.

Checking and monitoring your blood pressure at home is an important part of managing hypertension.  A wristech monitor, which is a digital wrist band, is one option for in home testing.  A cuff, and a stethoscope, like the one that is used in doctor’s offices is another option.  Taking regular measurements of your blood pressure will help you track your treatments, and help you have better control.  Home monitoring can also help cut down on the number of visits that may be necessary to your doctor.  The measurements for your blood pressure are in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and it measure the force of the blood against the artery walls as your heart beats (systolic pressure), over the blood pressure between your heartbeats (diastolic pressure).  A normal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80, 120 (systolic) over 80 (diastolic).  High blood pressure is 140/90, or higher.  

Treatment of high blood pressure may include medication, along with many lifestyle changes.  Probably the simplest, yet most effective ways to lower your blood pressure is to eat a healthy diet, full of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and low fat or fat free dairy.  Research has found garlic to be very effective in helping to reduce high blood pressure. Quitting smoking and regular alcohol intake will also help lower your blood pressure.  Regular exercise such as walking, jogging, or cycling has been found to help lower blood pressure.

Meditation and relaxation and stress management have also been proven to be very beneficial. When you are stressed, your brain releases a rush of adrenaline and other stress hormones into your body.  This in return is a sign for your heart to pump more and your arteries to constrict.  More, blood in smaller vessels means an increase in blood pressure.  To some extent, we can control our body functions with our brain, and we can calm ourselves by focusing on relaxing.  Research has also suggested that owning a pet can help lower your blood pressure, decrease your anxiety, and boost your immunity.  Check with your doctor before you start an exercise program, and ask the following questions;

v     How often do I need to exercise?

v     How long do I need to exercise for each day?

v     What type of exercises would be most beneficial?

v     Are there any exercises or activities that I should avoid?

There are many ways to naturally battle hypertension, but in cases of extremely high blood pressure working with your doctor and the many medications that are available, will be life saving.