The Causes and Different Ways to Manage High Blood Pressure

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High Blood Pressure

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common lifestyle disease that occurs when the blood pressure in your arteries has a substantially higher force than usual. More than a hundred million individuals in the United States have hypertension, accounting for 50% of the American population. It is possible to have hypertension in West New York without experiencing its symptoms, including breathing difficulties and headaches. This makes routine medical visits necessary as this condition can be detected in one of those sessions. Early medical intervention is also essential to lower your chances of developing heart diseases as hypertension can damage major blood vessels, including your arteries.

What causes high blood pressure?

There are two different types of hypertension, with each type having varying causes. They include primary and secondary hypertension.

Primary hypertension

Several adults gradually develop primary or essential hypertension for no apparent reason. This type of high blood pressure may grow over several years.

Secondary hypertension

Unlike primary hypertension, which gradually develops over the years, secondary hypertension occurs suddenly, resulting in higher blood pressure than essential hypertension. This type of hypertension is primarily due to underlying health conditions that include kidney disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and thyroid problems. It can also result from certain medications such as decongestants, over-the-counter pain killers, and birth control pills.

How can you manage hypertension?

Lifestyle remedies may help keep the blood pressure levels at the required state and can help lower your risk for hypertension. The following practices may be helpful for people that live with high blood pressure.

Maintain a healthy body mass index

People who are overweight are at risk for hypertension as more blood is needed to supply their body organs with nutrients and oxygen. Losing excess weight is one of the most effective ways to lower blood pressure and prevent the same development. Maintaining a healthy weight is attainable by eating healthy foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid foods such as fries as which are fat saturated. Your dietician may help with the formulation of a diet plan. Regular physical exercise is also a healthy way of losing excess weight and maintaining a healthy BMI.

Limit your intake of sodium-rich foods

Foods rich in sodium, such as salted crisps, increase water retention in your body, which hikes blood pressure levels. People with hypertension are advised to consume foods such as potatoes instead of potassium, which helps balance the sodium in your body cells.

Engage in physical activity

Participating in regular physical exercise helps lower blood pressure and stress levels, which is also associated with hypertension. Consistency is critical when engaging in physical activity as slacking may cause the blood pressure to rise. A physical therapist may guide you through exercises depending on your age and other health conditions like arthritis. Physical exercise can range from mild to high-intensity workouts. Other times you may combine both moderate and intense activities. You should exercise for at least 150 minutes each week for light aerobics and 75 minutes a week of vigorous exercises.

If you have further inquiries on hypertension or need a check-up, consult with your health care provider at The Doctor’s House.