Hypertension – The silent killer: how to protect yourself and your loved ones
Cardiovascular disease is the disease that kills the most people in the world. The figures are truly horrifying, even though most cardiovascular diseases are easily preventable. Controlling blood pressure is relatively easy – all you need to do is eat well, exercise, give up alcohol and nicotine, and strengthen your immunity. Though sometimes you may need to resort to medicine.
Causes of hypertension
Blood pressure is determined by many factors. Some we can control and others we cannot. Here are some of the main causes of hypertension:
- Excessive salt intake
- Stress and anxiety
- Alcohol abuse
- Genetic factors
- Diabetes
- Smoking
How to take your blood pressure correctly
Blood pressure is the pressure of blood flowing against the walls of blood vessels. If your blood pressure is higher than normal, your heart has to work harder to move blood around your body. Normal blood pressure ranges from 100 to 120 mmHg (upper) and 60 and 80 mmHg (lower). Hypertension increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, aneurysm and chronic kidney disease.
Symptoms
Most people do not experience symptoms of hypertension. High blood pressure is also known as the silent killer. Why? Because it catches the patient unawares, and trouble appears as if out of nowhere. Most people only find out about this problem by accident when they have their blood pressure taken by a doctor.
Medical options – Beta Blockers
If you’re dealing with hypertension, you’ve got some medical choices to help you out, like beta blockers. Beta blockers are a type of medication commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure. They work by blocking the effects of certain hormones (such as adrenaline) that can increase heart rate and constrict blood vessels, thereby helping to reduce blood pressure. Such medicine can be found at sellers such as Deus Medical.
Natural Approaches for Managing Hypertension
Regulating blood pressure can be effectively achieved through proper nutrition, physical activity, and weight control, without relying on medication. Here are seven natural methods to lower blood pressure if followed diligently:
Potassium
Potassium is a mineral that helps maintain fluid balance and electrolyte levels in the body, contributing to healthy blood pressure. Antihypertensive medications often focus on maintaining adequate potassium levels. Foods rich in potassium, like almonds, are ideal choices for individuals with hypertension.
Fiber
Extensive scientific research has consistently emphasized the remarkable ability of a high-fiber diet to effectively reduce blood pressure. By incorporating ample amounts of vegetables and fruits into one’s daily eating habits, individuals with hypertension can reap the benefits of their exceptional fiber content.
Reduced salt intake
Within a span of just four weeks, lowering salt intake can lead to a decrease in blood pressure. Experts emphasize that reducing salt consumption is more crucial than increasing fiber. Limiting salt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support heart health and maintain healthy blood vessels.