High Blood Pressure affects around 1.13 million people globally. It occurs when the heart has to exert more pressure to pump blood. High blood pressure has no symptoms, so it takes time to diagnose. However, some people experience headaches and shortness of breath when they develop high blood pressure.
A high blood pressure problem means its effect is long-lasting. If not, blood pressure can be controlled with proper treatment and medication. If it is chronically high, it can lead to other serious problems like heart attack and stroke.
BP is needed to deliver oxygen, nutrients and antibodies to body parts through the blood. Systolic pressure (120 mmHg) is the highest pressure on the heart’s walls when it contracts, and diastolic pressure (80 mmHg) is when the heart is resting. Its normal value is 120/80.
BP naturally fluctuates, so it should be tested two or three times on different days. 120/80 is normal, 130/80 to 139/89 is stage one, 140/90 or more is stage two, and over 180/120 is severe stage. If left unchecked, problems like heart disease, kidney disease, and eyesight will arise.
Causes of hypertension:
- Changes in lifestyle, ageing, work stress, heredity, overweight, high salt intake, alcohol, smoking, lack of physical activity, and mental stress are all causes of high blood pressure.
- Chronic stress is the main cause of BP.
- Consuming too much tea, coffee, soft drinks, and processed food leads to the accumulation of toxins in the body and the dilation of blood vessels, which in turn contributes to increased blood pressure (BP).
- Problems like obesity, diabetes, and chronic constipation also have an effect.
- Due to the difference in kidney function, the increase in salt in the blood will likely increase the BP.
- In allopathic medicine, pills can be given to control BP, but the key is to treat the underlying cause.
Pathways to Reduce High Blood Pressure :
High Reduce sodium intake: High salt causes water retention in the body and increases pressure on the blood vessels. High sodium in table salt, processed foods and fast foods increases blood pressure. BP can be controlled by limiting these.
Adequate intake of potassium: Low potassium intake can increase blood pressure. BP can be controlled by adding bananas, potatoes, beans, and yoghurt to the diet, which contain the potassium the body needs.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise, especially 30 minutes of brisk walking, yoga, and stretching, can promote efficient blood flow, help control weight, and lower blood pressure.
Losing excess weight: Obesity caused by an excess of fat in the body can seriously damage heart health. It puts extra strain on the heart and increases blood pressure.
Increased cholesterol levels in the body put pressure on the blood vessels and heart, which can lead to problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. BP can be controlled by keeping your weight under control.
Avoid alcohol: Consuming too much alcohol can increase blood pressure. Women should not drink alcohol more than once a day. Men should not take more than 2 drinks a day. Consuming too much alcohol can cause many other problems apart from high blood pressure. So it is better to avoid alcohol as much as possible
No smoking: smoking increases the problem of high blood pressure. This causes damage to the heart and blood vessels. Nicotine raises blood pressure, and carbon monoxide lowers oxygen levels, so quitting smoking can keep BP under control.
Taking natural supplements:
- Potassium: Helps balance sodium levels.
- Magnesium: Relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation.
- Garlic Supplements: This may help lower systolic and diastolic BP, but consult a doctor for proper dosage.
Checking blood pressure frequently: Regular blood pressure checking is important for health. Adolescents should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year, as high blood pressure may not show symptoms.
High blood pressure problems are becoming common even at a young age. The methods should be followed properly while checking by yourself. Otherwise, the levels are likely to be incorrect. It is better to get the help of a doctor or specialist regarding the procedure for using the machine.
Conclusion :
If you have a high blood pressure problem, lifestyle changes, maintaining a daily routine, and avoiding bad habits can protect your brain health in the long run. Small changes like exercise, weight control, a heart-friendly Mediterranean diet, and alcohol reduction can help control BP as well as other problems like diabetes. Frequent BP checks, monitoring, and consultation with a healthcare professional can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
