Hypertension, also known by high blood pressure, is a condition that affects many people all over the globe.
Nearly half of Americans (or 116 million) have hypertension.
High blood pressure is a common condition, but many people don’t realize the dangers it can pose.
These are three important things everyone who has high blood pressure needs to know
High blood pressure is more dangerous than you might expect
Doctors often refer to high blood pressure as a silent killer. You won’t feel sick or in pain.
High blood pressure should not to be underestimated.
High blood pressure can put you at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and other potentially life-threatening conditions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), high blood pressure is responsible for 12.8% of all deaths in the world.
It is important to regularly have your blood pressure checked and to follow your doctor’s advice for managing your condition.
Lifestyle and Diet Changes Can Lower Blood Pressure
While some people are more predisposed to hypertension, lifestyle and diet can have a significant impact on your chances of developing it.
High blood pressure can often be prevented or managed. Lifestyle changes may even reverse it.
Healthy eating habits can help lower blood pressure. These are some dietary changes that you can make to lower your blood pressure.
- Reduce your sodium (salt) intake.
- Enjoy more plant-based food.
- Limit your alcohol consumption.
- Avoid processed food, ready-made meals, and manufactured snacks.
- Make your own meals, instead of ordering take-out.
- Reduce red meat consumption and eat more processed meats (hot dogs, bacon, sausages, etc.).
Lifestyle changes can help lower your blood pressure.
- Do at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each day.
- Stop smoking.
- Learn and practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, mindfulness, deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
- Enjoy consistent and high-quality sleep every night.
There are times when you may need to take medication (or change them)
Lifestyle changes may not be enough to lower blood pressure in many cases. People don’t always make the changes necessary to their lifestyle and diet.
Your doctor will help you determine the right medication combination for you. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and make lifestyle changes to improve your health.
Your doctor might need to adjust your medication or switch to another medication if your blood pressure has not dropped.
Talk to your doctor if you have questions about managing your blood pressure. Your doctor can provide you with personalized advice and recommendations to help reduce hypertension-related complications and high blood pressure.
