Once you turn 50, it may be beneficial to measure your blood pressure daily. Learn about the benefits of daily blood pressure monitoring.
Since the risk of developing serious health conditions increases as you age, it’s important to establish certain health habits now. One of those habits is measuring your blood pressure, which you should be doing daily after you turn 50. Keep reading to find out how this habit can benefit you.
High Blood Pressure and Your Health
According to the Mayo Clinic, high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) can damage your body for years without you noticing. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to heart disease, kidney damage, vision loss, sexual dysfunction, a heart attack, a stroke, and more.
Furthermore, a study appearing in the journal JAMA Network Open explains that people between the ages of 50 and 80 have an increased risk of hypertension. Moreover, they also have a “higher risk of adverse outcomes from uncontrolled BP [blood pressure] than younger adults.”
“Home BP monitoring is associated with moderate decreases in blood pressure and is cost-effective,” the study states. “Our results suggest that protocols should be developed to educate patients about the importance of self-measured blood pressure monitoring (SBPM) and sharing readings with clinicians and the frequency that SBPM should be performed.”
In addition, the study notes that only 48 percent of individuals who should regularly measure their blood pressure at home do so.
Measuring Your Blood Pressure
“It’s important to take the readings at the same time each day, such as morning and evening,” the American Heart Association (AHA) states. They also note that you should record your numbers on a tracking sheet for future reference.
When measuring your blood pressure at home, avoid any factors that may influence your reading. For example, you should empty your bladder five minutes before your reading and avoid drinking, smoking, or exercising within 30 minutes before your reading.
Lowering Your Blood Pressure
By monitoring your blood pressure on a regular basis, you’ll know if you need to see your doctor and if your treatment is working. You should also take active steps to maintain a healthy blood pressure range.
Some tips that can help include losing weight through regular exercise and a healthy diet. Other things that will help include not smoking, limiting your alcohol intake, managing your stress, reducing your sodium consumption, and sleeping well.
In some circumstances, your doctor may prescribe a medication or recommend the use of a breath-training device. Lastly, taking supplements like L-arginine Plus may give your blood pressure health an extra boost.
Its ingredients work together to promote your circulation, blood pressure, cholesterol, and more. Give your blood pressure health the support it deserves by practicing healthy habits and taking L-arginine Plus.