Hypertension
Blood pressure is the pressure exerted by the flow of blood on arterial walls. Normally throughout the day blood pressure goes up and down. But if it stays up you may be suffering from high blood pressure also called Hypertension
Blood pressure is written as two numbers. The first (systolic) number represents the pressure in your artery during heartbeat. The second (diastolic) number represents the pressure in your artery between two heart beats i.e. when your heart relaxes.
BLOOD PRESSURE LEVELS
| Normal | systolic: less than 120 mmHg | diastolic: less than 80mmHg |
| At risk (prehypertension) | systolic: 120–139 mmHg | diastolic: 80–89 mmHg |
| High | systolic: 140 mmHg or higher | diastolic: 90 mmHg or higher |
RISK FACTORS
- Family history of high blood pressure
- Advanced age
- Lack of physical activity
- Stress
- Poor diet, especially one that includes too much salt
- Obesity or overweight
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol use
- Use of oral contraceptives
SYMPTOMS
Usually there are no symptoms associated with hypertension hence it is called “Silent Killer”.
There is a common misconception that people with high blood pressure will experience symptoms such as nervousness, sweating, insomnia. Hypertension is a mainly a symptomless condition. Ignoring blood pressure in the view that symptoms will alert you is a grave mistake.
Very High blood pressure also termed Malignant Hypertension can cause Severe Headache, Severe Anxiety, Shortness of breath, Vision Problems, Vomiting, Nose bleed.
Without treatment hypertension can cause damage to arteries, kidneys, brain, eyes which may lead to blood vessel diseases, stroke, kidney failure.
HOW IS BLOOD PRESSURE DIAGNOSED
Blood pressure is diagnosed during routine visits to the doctor. To diagnose hypertension blood pressure must be at least 140/90mm of Hg on three or more separate occasions, usually measured 1-2weeks apart.
WAYS TO CONTROL YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE
- Manage your weight, Lose extra pounds
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a healthy diet
- Reduce sodium in your diet
- No Smoking/Alcohol
Homeopathy
High blood pressure is not a disease in itself, but it may indicate a grave underlying condition. Homeopathic medicines works wonderfully in individuals who have not got used to conventional medicine, nonetheless it does not rule out the management of individuals who are taking conventional medicine for years. Homeopathy offers a safe alternative which can be taken for a prolonged time without any side effects.