5 Effective Ways to Manage Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by the persistent elevation of blood pressure in the arteries.

Blood pressure usually rises and falls throughout the day, but it can damage your heart and cause health problems if it stays high for a long time. This happens when your blood pressure exceeds normal (120/80 mmHg).

The higher your blood pressure levels, the more risk you have for other health problems, such as heart disease, heart attack, and stroke

Signs and Symptoms

• Headaches
• Nosebleeding
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Nausea & vomiting
• Chest pain

Risk Factors

Diabetes

Diabetes causes sugars to build up in the blood and increases heart disease risk.

Unhealthy Diet

A diet that is too high in sodium and too low in potassium puts you at risk for high blood pressure.

Obesity

Obesity or being overweight means your heart must work harder to pump blood and oxygen around your body,  adding stress to your heart and blood vessels.

Tobacco Use

Tobacco use increases your risk of high blood pressure. Smoking can damage the heart and blood vessels, as nicotine causes raised blood pressure.

Genetics and Family History

Genes play some role in high blood pressure and other heart diseases. The risk for high blood pressure can increase even more when heredity is combined with the risk factors mentioned above.

Prevention

No matter your age, you can take steps each day to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range.

• Eat a Healthy Diet

• Choose healthy meal options to help you avoid high blood pressure and its complications. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Keep Yourself at a Healthy Weight

• Obesity increases your risk for high blood pressure. Calculate your BMI to determine whether your weight is in a healthy range.

• Be Physically Active

• Physical activity can help keep you at a healthy weight and lower your blood pressure. One hour of physical activity every day is recommended.

• Avoid Smoking

• Smoking raises your blood pressure and increases your heart attack and stroke risk.

• Get Enough Sleep

• Getting enough sleep is vital to your overall health, and enough sleep is part of keeping your heart and blood vessels healthy.

If you have a family history of hypertension and want to manage your blood pressure,  consult a doctor via Maxicare’s 24/7 Teleconsult Hotline, the Doctor Anywhere App, or Primary Care Clinic (PCC). You may also visit a PCC or request HomeCare for lab tests and diagnostic procedures.

References: https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/facts.htm

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