Questions about hypertension? The following are some of the most common questions about blood pressure and helpful answers.
High blood pressure (or hypertension) is one of the leading factors in cardiovascular disease. Millions of people worldwide experience this condition and have questions about it. The following are some common questions about blood pressure and helpful answers.
1. What are some causes of high blood pressure?
There are many contributing factors that can lead to the development of hypertension. Some of these include genetics, age, poor diet, physical inactivity, and a poor diet.
2. What is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure?
Systolic is the force of blood against artery walls as the heart beats, while diastolic is the pressure between heartbeats. Moreover, in reading blood pressure measurements, systolic is the top number and diastolic is the bottom number.
3. What is a healthy blood pressure reading?
According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure is less than 120 systolic and less than 80 diastolic. There are a couple of stages above normal blood pressure readings, including elevated, hypertension 1, hypertension 2, and hypertensive crisis.
4. What are some health problems related to hypertension?
There are several serious conditions associated with hypertension including atherosclerosis, eye disease, and kidney disease. Furthermore, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease and stroke, which can be fatal.
5. How can I determine if I have hypertension?
High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because it usually doesn’t have any symptoms. A doctor can help you determine if you have hypertension, but risk factors like family history and lifestyle can be good indicators.
6. Is there a cure for high blood pressure?
There is no cure for hypertension, but there are ways you can manage it through lifestyle changes and medication. If you have hypertension, consider losing weight, exercising regularly, and following a healthy eating plan.
7. Do high blood pressure medications have side effects?
Like with any drugs, you may experience certain side effects from high blood pressure medication. Some of the most common include headaches, dizziness, weakness, and others – although, each medication has its own side effects.
8. What is the best diet for high blood pressure?
If you have high blood pressure, consume more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting foods high in saturated fats. Moreover, you can follow certain diets specifically designed for lowering blood pressure like the DASH diet or the Mediterranean diet.
Improving Blood Pressure
Even though there are certain factors you can’t change (like genetics), you should focus on what you can manage. For example, you can exercise regularly, focusing on aerobic activities and a bit of weight training.
You can also follow a healthy eating plan like the ones mentioned, which will also help you lose weight. By regularly working out, eating healthy, and maintaining a healthy weight, you’ll go a long way in lowering blood pressure.
In addition, you can add supplements like L-arginine Plus to your routine as they promote circulation and lower blood pressure. Try it alongside these other healthy activities and lifestyle changes to effectively boost your heart health.