High blood Pressure (BP), also known as hypertension (HPN), is a medical condition that occurs when arteries are narrowed thus causing the heart to work harder to pump blood. It is often called the “Silent killer”; HPN is especially dangerous because it often has no warning signs and symptoms until it causes heart disease, kidney disease or stroke. By any means a modification of one’s attitude and practices is necessary for effective control of HPN. Here’s how…
Stop smoking… smoking injures blood vessel walls and speeds up the process of hardening of the arteries. All I can say is “If you don’t smoke, don’t start and if you smoke, quit”. I know it’s not as simple as that and self control is really needed on this. But hey I know someone who quits smoking just like that.
Control weight and Eat right… ouch! This is where I am guilty off. I love eating! We all do right! I’m more of the carbo one’s than the sugar rush lovers yet nevertheless both of them were a no-no. Extra weight makes the heart work harder and raises BP. Losing even 10 pounds can help lower your blood pressure especially when you’re overweight and already hypertensive. Eating the right is a must. Salt and fat on foods may elevate BP, so do caffeine and alcohol. Plan meals and TRY to eat more fruits, veggies and high-fiber foods.
Cut down on salt and alcohol… salt causes fluid retention and subsequently puts more pressure on the blood vessels. Drinking more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day increases BP as well.
Involve your family physician… yap you read it right. Regular visits to the doctor ensure periodic examination for possible complications and monitoring of maintenance medications. Take the team approach in controlling HPN. Remember prevention is better than cure.
Note your medicine intake… taking regular medication as directed by the physician is a vital one. Even if you feel well, take it. Do not stop unless advised by your doctor.
Lastly, exercise daily… choose an activity you enjoy like brisk walking, dancing, biking or badminton. Exercise need not be strenuous.
How is Blood Pressure measured?
Before having it taken…
Sit quietly for at least 5 minutes in a chair, with feet on the floor and arm supported at heart level. Make sure the temperature of the room is just right. Do not cross your legs or talk before and during the procedure.
Systolic Pressure is the highest pressure measurement: it is caused by blood as it travels in the vessels while the heart is contracting.
Diastolic Pressure is the lowest pressure measurement: it is caused by blood as it travels in the vessels while the heart is relaxing between beats.
BP = Systolic / Diastolic
Ex. 120 mmHg/80 mmHg
Reads as “120 over 80”
Health is Wealth!