High Blood Pressure (HBP) is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. High blood pressure is defined as when the average systolic reading is greater than 140 mm Hg and/or diastolic reading is greater than 90 mm Hg.
The causes of high blood pressure include genetics, lifestyle factors such as diet, stress and lack of exercise, age, gender, ethnicity and certain medical conditions like kidney disease.
Symptoms of high blood pressure include headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, leg cramps, nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing, weakness, numbness in hands and feet, swelling of ankles and feet, and sudden fainting spells.
Prevention of high blood pressure involves adopting healthy habits such as exercising regularly, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, limiting salt intake, managing stress, controlling weight, and reducing consumption of processed foods.
10 Tips to Help Manage High Blood Pressure:
1. Eat less salt. Salt is one of the most common culprits behind high blood pressure. Chances are, high blood pressure may be caused by too much salt in your diet. Try to keep your daily intake of salt under 1,500 mg/day.
2. Get moving. Regular exercise lowers your resting blood pressure and reduces your risk of developing high BP. Exercise improves your overall fitness level and boosts your energy levels.
3. Quit smoking. Smoking puts you at a greater risk of developing high blood pressure, as well as a myriad of other health complications. Quitting smoking is one of the easiest ways to improve your health and lower your risk of developing high pressure.
4. Limit alcohol. Alcohol is a depressant that causes your body to release adrenaline, which raises your blood pressure. Moderate drinking is fine, but avoid binge-drinking.
5. Lose weight. Being overweight can have a tremendous effect on the development and exacerbation of high blood pressure. Losing 5% of your current body weight can significantly lower your blood pressure.
6. Manage stress. Stress is a common trigger for high blood pressure. Learn to recognize when you’re stressed and try to relax before it gets worse.
7. Keep track of your blood pressure. Keeping track of your blood pressure readings throughout the week can help you identify patterns and habits that increase your risk of developing high pressures.
8. Check your medications. Make sure you’re taking your medication as prescribed. Ask your doctor what dosage is right for you.
9. Know your numbers. Knowing your blood pressure numbers can give you insight into whether your treatment is effective. Record your blood pressure readings each month.
10. Talk to your doctor. Discuss your concerns with your physician. He or she can recommend additional tests or treatments to help you control your blood pressure.
Let Treasure Valley Metabolic Medicine Help!
High blood pressure is a common condition that affects millions of Americans each year. While it can cause numerous health problems and complications, it can be managed with proper care. That’s where our team comes in.
Treasure Valley Metabolic Medicine offers comprehensive programs that comprehensively address both your diet and exercise habits. Our specialists provide personalized recommendations based on your individual health needs. We also offer additional holistic resources in our treatment plans, including dietary counseling, weight loss support, stress management, and other services.
Our goal is to help our patients achieve optimal wellness while managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and more. We believe that treating the whole person is the key to long-term success.
Contact us or call us at (208) 274-9580 to get started.
