Blood Pressure
The force that blood applies to the artery walls as it travels through the body is known as blood pressure. Systolic and diastolic pressure are two numbers that are usually stated as millimetres of mercury (mmHg) measurements.
The greater number, or systolic pressure, indicates the pressure in the arteries during a heartbeat, while the lower number, or diastolic pressure, indicates the pressure in the arteries during a period of relaxation between beats.
When the pressure of the blood against the artery walls is constantly too high, elevated blood pressure, also known as hypertension, results. This may increase the chance of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues by putting additional pressure on the heart and blood vessels.
Contrarily, low blood pressure develops when the blood’s constant pressure against the vessel walls is too low, which can cause symptoms like lightheadedness and syncope.
For general health and wellbeing, it’s crucial to maintain a good blood pressure. Changes in lifestyle, such as having a healthy diet, keeping a healthy weight, exercising frequently, consuming less alcohol, and quitting smoking, can help lower high blood pressure and lower the chance of associated health issues.
In some circumstances, taking medicine to regulate blood pressure may be necessary. The early detection and treatment of high or low blood pressure depend on routine blood pressure tests.
Adults with healthy blood pressure are usually those whose systolic pressure (the top number) is less than 120 mmHg and their diastolic pressure (the bottom number), which is frequently expressed as “120/80 mmHg” or “normal” blood pressure, is less than 80 mmHg. However, a number of variables, including age, gender, general health, and family background, can affect blood pressure.
It’s crucial to remember that blood pressure can change throughout the course of the day, so a single measurement does not always represent a person’s average blood pressure. It is advised to frequently check blood pressure and speak with a healthcare professional for individualised guidance on keeping healthy blood pressure levels.
Changes in lifestyle, such as adopting a healthy diet, keeping a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, abstaining from smoking and binge drinking alcohol, and handling stress, can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels. To assist regulate blood pressure, medication may be required in some circumstances.
The early detection and treatment of high or low blood pressure depend on routine blood pressure tests.
There are numerous methods to help manage blood pressure, including:
A reasonable weight should be maintained because being overweight or obese increases the chance of elevated blood pressure. Blood pressure can be lowered by losing weight through a nutritious diet and frequent exercise.
Maintain a healthy diet: Consuming a diet full of fresh produce, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy items can help reduce blood pressure.
It’s crucial to stay away from meals that are heavy in salt, extra sugars, and saturated fat.
Regular exercise can help reduce blood pressure by enhancing blood flow and fortifying the heart. On most days of the week, try to get in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, like vigorous strolling.
Consume less salt: Consuming too much sodium can cause blood pressure to rise. Less than 2,300 milligrammes of salt should be consumed each day, or even less if you have elevated blood pressure.
Prevent using tobacco products: Smoking or using tobacco raises blood pressure and raises the chance of heart disease and stroke. Giving up smoking is a crucial first move in managing blood pressure.
Control your tension: Long-term stress can raise your blood pressure. Find methods to deal with tension, such as through meditation, exercise, or counselling.
Follow the directions on your prescriptions: In some circumstances, blood pressure management may require the use of medicine. It’s crucial to take medicines as directed by a medical professional and to show up to follow-up visits to check your blood pressure.
