Hypertension: Blood Pressure Facts

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Hypertension:Blood Pressure Facts & Myths introduction

In this two-part series, the facts and myths surrounding hypertension will be discussed.Hypertension facts will be the focus of this first article.

Hypertension is known by other names such as high blood pressure, HTN, the "Silent Killer," hypertension, arterial hypertension, secondary hypertension, and primary hypertension, and is simply defined as chronically elevated blood pressure.

Hypertension is described when a blood pressure reading is 140/90 or above (1). This reading is said as 140 over 90.The top number represents the systolic number, which is the result of the heart contracting.The bottom number represents the diastolic number, which is the result of the heart resting.

Hypertension:blood pressure facts

The number one fact of hypertension is that it must be addressed.Left uncontrolled, hypertension is a precursor to:

1. Aneurysm: A weakening vessel wall commonly causes this permanent arterial or cardiac dilatation
2. Chronic renal failure: This ongoing failure results from a systemic disorder
3. Death
4. Heart attack
5. Heart failure
6. Stroke

The number two fact of hypertension is that it can be controlled or prevented naturally.These simple lifestyle modifications include:

1. The DASH diet.DASH is an acronym for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension.A DASH diet means to eat more calcium-enriched foods, fish, fruits, low-fat dairy foods, magnesium-enriched foods, nuts, potassium-enriched foods, poultry, vegetables, and whole grain products.A DASH diet means to restrict foods that are high in cholesterol, fat, and saturated fats.Finally, a DASH diet means to eat less red meat and sweets.The DASH diet is shown to lower blood pressure levels within two weeks (2).
2. Physical activity.If you live a sedentary lifestyle, it's important to start exercise or physical activity on a low-scale regimen.The more fun you can make a regimen, the more you'll stick with it.Look for sports you enjoy.Walking is a simple exercise that provides huge health benefits.Your ultimate goal should be to strive for just 30 minutes a day, four to six times weekly (3).Exercise will not only benefit your body, it will benefit you emotionally.
3. Lose weight.Remember diet and exercise will promote faster and more permanent weight loss.Don't set unrealistic goals.Be a wise dieter.Create healthy goals.
4. Reduce salt.Be aware when you shop.Learn to read labels.When you dine at a restaurant, ask questions.You may be pleasantly surprised how restaurants can meet your health needs.If a particular meal is high in salt, you can balance it out with potassium-enriched foods like fruits and vegetables.
5. Stop smoking.Smoking is known to restrict the blood vessels and raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

The number three fact of hypertension is to realize knowledge is tantamount to optimal health.

1. Learn everything you can about hypertension.Join support groups.Talk to your medical professional and others with hypertension.Be willing to accept responsibility for your actions.
2. Become involved with your health.Make wise choices.Make wise decisions.
3. Take regular blood pressure readings.
4. Adopt the necessary lifestyle modifications.
5. See what supplement is right for you. Sometimes medications can be substituted.

(1) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypertension

(2) http://www.webmd.com/content/article/132/118511.htm

(3) http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/heartdisease/risk/239.html