Don't Ignore your numbers (Blood Pressure)

High Blood Pressure!

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) is a common disorder of the circulatory system, affecting world’s adults and becoming more common with age. Older peoples may experience a change in their blood pressure pattern due to their arteries becoming more rigid (becoming less elastic). Most people do not even realize they have high blood pressure. Experts recommend that everyone should have checked their blood pressure regularly (preferably yearly).

Blood pressure is measured using an instrument called a sphygmomanometer. Blood pressure readings are a combination of two (Numbers) measurements. These are:

•  Systolic: is the highest pressure against the arteries as the heart pumps. The normal systolic pressure is usually between 110 and 130mmHg.
• Diastolic: is the pressure against the arteries as the heart relaxes and fills with blood. The normal diastolic pressure is usually between 70 and 80mmHg.

Can Cause

Hypertension usually does not produce any symptoms, because the organs of the body can resist high blood pressure for a long time. That’s why it is important to have regular medical examinations to make sure your blood pressure is in normal range.

High blood pressure over a period of time can contribute to many illnesses and diseases, including:

1. Heart attack
2. Heart failure
3. Kidney disease
4. Stroke

The Sources of Danger

Some of the factors which can contribute to high blood pressure include:

1. Hereditary factors
2. Obesity
3. Lack of exercise or movements
4. Extra in salt
5. Drinking alcohol
6. kidney disease

The effects of high blood pressure on the arteries are worsened by:

1. Cigarette smoking
2. High levels of saturated fat in the diet
3. High blood cholesterol
4. Diabetes.

Certain drugs can cause hypertension. Check your drugs with your doctor or pharmacist for alternatives. These drugs include:

1. The combined contraceptive pill
2. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
3. Some nasal drops and sprays
4. Some cough medicines, eye drops and appetite suppressants.

It can be control

Two out of five people can successfully lower their blood pressure by making adjustments to their lifestyle. For example, a low-fat diet and giving up cigarette smoking will reduce the damaging effects of hypertension on the arteries. Some healthy lifestyle choices include:

• Maintain your weight within the healthy range.
• Eat a high-fiber, low-fat and low-salt diet.
• Give up smoking.
• Stop alcohol consumption.
• Exercise regularly and do physical works (See your doctor before you start any new exercise program.)

Last Advice

In most cases, it is necessary to take antihypertensive medication as well. Any drug treatment for hypertension needs to be monitored carefully by your doctor or pharmacist. You should never alter the dose of your hypertension medication or stop taking it without consulting with your doctor or pharmacist.

By Pharmacist Mithun Samodder

Online Pharmacy Expert