Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Precautions & Ways to Control It.

What Is Hypertension?

Hypertension, popularly known as high blood pressure, is a health condition in which the artery wall has to withstand the high force of the blood. It can lead to heart attacks or stroke if you do not take any precautions for high blood pressure to treat the condition.

Stats In India

As of November 2018, one in five young adults in the country had high blood pressure.  The death due to hypertension in India in 2016 was approximately 1.63 million.

Causes Of hypertension

Obesity, diabetes, kidney infection, disruptive sleep apnea, consumption of excess salt, alcoholism, smoking, addiction to caffeine, improper diet and lack of exercise are some known causes of hypertension.

Exercises For High Blood Pressure

Exercises reduce the stiffness of blood vessels, lowering high blood pressure. Brisk- walking for a minimum of 10 minutes at least thrice a day, 30 minutes of cycling, hiking, pedal pushing, weight training and swimming are some exercises that can reduce high blood pressure.

Foods For High Blood Pressure

It is advisable to eat berries, bananas, beets, dark chocolate, kiwis, watermelon, oats, leafy green vegetables, natural yoghurt, lentils and pulses to lower the blood pressure in a short duration. 

How To Monitor and Keep Track Regularly

You can track your blood pressure daily by measuring it at least twice a day. Make a habit of noting it down so that you can compare your blood pressure levels. Refrain from consuming tea, coffee, food, alcohol and tobacco half an hour before you check the blood pressure level. Also, go to the toilet first because a full bladder can slightly raise the BP.

High Blood Pressure Emergency Treatment

Vasodilators like nitroglycerin and nitroprusside can help treat blood pressure immediately.

Risks Of High Blood Pressure

If high blood pressure is left untreated, it can increase the risk of heart disease, strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, kidney disease, vascular dementia, aortic aneurysms and peripheral arterial disease.

Through this infographic, we aim to educate people about the numbers one should know to manage blood pressure effectively. To keep these numbers in check, one should go for medical check-ups on a regular basis. Along with frequent medical health care check-ups, there are different ways to monitor blood pressure. Few of them are explained in this infographic like exercising regularly, consuming salt, keeping your weight and waistline in control and maintaining a healthy diet.

Wellness and lifestyle blogs like this one educate you on everything you need to know on how to lead a better life. You can browse more articles like everything about blood pressure and acupressure for blood pressure.

QnA

What Should Be Avoided In High BP?

Some precautions for high BP include avoiding the consumption of excess salt, fried foods, canned soups, whole milk dairy products salad dressings and red meat.

What Are The Best Drinks For High Blood Pressure?

People with high blood pressure should drink berry juice, skim milk, pomegranate juice, tomato juice and beet juice.

How Can I Lower My Blood Pressure Immediately?

If you want to lower your blood pressure level, it is necessary to change your lifestyle. Ensure that you consume a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Besides this, it is vital to cut down on sodium (salt), quit smoking, lower your stress, avoid having alcohol and restrict the consumption of caffeine.

What Foods Can Lower Blood Pressure Immediately?

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit and lemon should be included in your diet plan as they have powerful BP-reducing effects. Additionally, you can consider consuming pumpkin seeds, berries, pistachios, beans and lentils.