Tips to control hypertension

The force exerted by the blood flow on various artery walls is called blood pressure. In recent days many people suffer from hypertension or high blood pressure.  Earlier stages of high blood pressure are symptom less, so we hardly realize. 

All of us should necessarily have our blood pressure checked above 40 years.  The check should be done at periodic intervals as the condition cannot be known with just one reading. 

High blood pressure damages the heart and the blood vessels.  Often the cause of blood pressure is not known.  Age is also a factor that influences the blood pressure.  Inheritance is also a suspected factor for hypertension.  Stress is also a factor that increases the hypertension.  Maintaining the blood pressure at a normal level definitely improves the quality of life.

Blood pressure is expressed in two numbers systolic and diastolic.  The peak pressure at which the heart beats to pump blood is called systolic and the pressure exerted when the hearts rests between beats is the diastolic pressure.  The instrument that is used to measure the pressure components is called to sphygmomanometer.  Usually 120/80 is said to be the normal pressure level.

Diet plays a very important role in the treatment and prevention of hypertension.  Human body tends to retain excessive salt and fluids and this tendency also leads to hypertension.  A high sodium diet also is a reason for hypertension.  It is recommended to use the low-sodium salt instead of the normal salt.  Patients who are hypertensive should avoid packaged foods. Avoid pickles. 

Weight management is the key health tip to maintain the levels of blood pressure.  A slight increase in weight also will lead to increase in blood pressure.  Always opt for low fat food.  Food laden with fat not only increases weight but also increases the blood pressure.  Change to healthy cooking like steaming instead of shallow fry.  Increase the portion of raw foods in your diet.  Try and eat small portions of fruits and vegetables often.  Use herbs and spices to flavor the food.

Apart from diet and weight management certain life style changes are necessary to manage the blood pressure levels.  Stay away from alcohol and smoking.  Opt for a regular exercise regime.  Meditating for a few minutes every day could help bring down the stress level and the proportional hypertension.

 Always consult a doctor for treating any kind of illness if you are hypertensive.  Over-the-counter medications are usually prescribed without the knowledge of the existing hypertension condition or the past medical history would also contribute to increase in blood pressure and in some cases may prove fatal.