Reducing High Blood Pressure and Home Monitoring
Controlling Hypertension is Vital in Maintaining a Healthy Heart
Jul 18, 2009
Known as the Silent Killer, hypertension often has no symptoms and frequently goes undetected. According to the Mayo Clinic, “High blood pressure typically develops over many years, and it affects nearly everyone eventually. Fortunately, high blood pressure can be easily detected.” When someone becomes aware they have high blood pressure, controlling it is the best option.
Symptoms or not, hypertension can be dangerous. Fortunately there are methods of treatment. The U.S. National Institute of Health states that “it can cause serious problems such as stroke, heart failure, heart attack and kidney failure. You can control high blood pressure through healthy lifestyle habits and taking medicines, if needed. “
The most important step in controlling hypertension, is by home monitoring and making simple changes in diet and exercise. Even pet ownership can help.
Monitoring Blood Pressure at Home
Learn to check blood pressure at home with an inexpensive blood-pressure monitor. They are readily available at drugstores and mail order. Remember to take the monitor to the doctor's office to check its accuracy.
Keep a running chart of blood pressure readings and show them to a physician. Record the date, time, location, and body position such as standing or sitting. Also note any other important factors, such as stress or medications,
High Blood Pressure and Diet
Eating a well-balanced diet helps maintain a normal weight. Excess body weight significantly increases the risk of developing high blood pressure. In fact, losing weight has the strongest possible effect on lowering hypertension, and even shedding 10 pounds makes a noticeable difference.
Sodium is a major contributer to high blood pressure. Don't add additional salt to prepared meals and avoid processed foods wherever possible. A can of soup or a frozen entrée for example, may have 1,000 milligrams of sodium. For a healthier heart, learn more about reducing sodium in diets.
Studies indicate that consuming high levels of alcohol can raise blood pressure to dangerous levels. Consume alcohol only in moderation. This is usually defined as no more than two12-ounce beers, two 4-ounce glasses of wine, or 3 ounces of 80-proof liquor per day.
It remains unknown whether caffeine has an effect on high blood pressure or not. It is possible however, depending on the individual and the amount of caffeine consumed regularly. For this reason, try eliminating caffeine for a couple of weeks to see if it has an affect.
High cholesterol levels can also contribute to hypertension. Reducing cholesterol can help to lower blood pressure.
Pets and High Blood Pressure
Pets have proven effective not only of lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels, but can lower hypertension as well. One way they accomplish this is with increased exercise and outdoor activities with their owners, but pets can also offer opportunities for socialization. In addition, caring for, playing with, talking to, and even watching pets can reduce stress and blood pressure. Pets as simple as birds and fish can be beneficial by producing a calming effect.
Lowering stress levels can be a huge factor in overall heart health.
Monitoring your blood pressure at home and making healthy lifestyle choices are essential to controlling hypertension, lowering high blood pressure and maintaining overall health.
 |
 |
 |
