High Blood Pressure: Lifestyle Changes to Lower Elevated Pressure with Dr. Shimon Storch
High blood pressure after a limit can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and stroke. Some HBP patients suffering from a higher level of HBP are called hypertensive, which is an emergency situation. They are already under medication to lower blood pressure because lifestyle changes are not sufficient for them. Blood pressure can be lowered by making lifestyle changes, but can you cure your HBP just by lifestyle changes?
When HBP is at lower levels, it is possible to bring it down to an acceptable level by lifestyle changes. However, once it exceeds a certain level, just the changes are not sufficient. In fact, you will even require medication to keep your HBP under control.
Can Lifestyle Changes Cure Hypertension?
A cure for hypertension or high blood pressure is possible but only in some cases of secondary hypertension. There are two types of hypertension – primary and secondary. About 90% of HBP people have primary hypertension. It means this health condition cannot be cured in most HBP-affected people. Even with secondary hypertension, the cure is limited to only certain cases.
Primary hypertension is defined as one where HBP is not due to an underlying medical condition or strong medication. Secondary hypertension is when the blood pressure increases due to another medical condition or because of the use of some medication that increases blood pressure. About 10% of cases of hypertension are secondary.
Most secondary hypertension cases can be treated successfully by treating the underlying medical condition or stopping the use of medication that is causing HBP. Some of the underlying medical conditions can include kidney problems, adrenaline gland problems, thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea, or narrowed aorta. Blood pressure can increase after the surgical removal of parathyroid glands or the surgery of a narrowed aorta. Medication can solve medical issues like kidney problems as well.
Lifestyle Modification for HTN
You can only manage and control primary hypertension, not cure it. In such a case, life style modification hypertension solutions are preferred because it is always better to take minimum medication to keep your body healthy, avoid medication side effects, and keep your body receptive to medication for a future emergency or chronic medical condition.
You can make the following lifestyle changes for elevated blood pressure:
Lose Weight
It is the most effective way to lower your blood pressure if you are overweight for your age and height. Pay attention to the waistline because this is the area where most of the fats settle. Losing weight helps lower BP in both direct and indirect ways. For example, a healthy weight ensures you do not suffer from problems like sleep apnea that increases blood pressure.
Ensure a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is recommended for everyone but more so for obese and underweight people. Make sure your diet includes grains, vegetables, fruits, and other healthy food and drink options. Opt for dairy products low in fat, and use food products with less cholesterol and saturated fat. Check the Mediterranean diet and other diet plans that help lower blood pressure; use fruits, vegetables, and supplements rich in potassium, but first, learn how much potassium per day is best for you.
Exercise
Exercise is recommended for everybody, although it is more beneficial for those suffering from health issues like high blood pressure. Regular exercise is necessary to keep your weight under control and remain fit and healthy. Even a 30-minute of moderate physical activity a day can be helpful. If you are unable to exercise regularly, do some activities that require physical exertion, such as a daily walk, doing household chores, taking the stairs in place of a lift, and others.
Lower the Sodium Intake
Lower your salt intake as the sodium present in the salt is known to increase blood pressure. Most of the sodium that people consume comes from the salt they consume through foods and drinks. Those with HBP are recommended to bring down their daily salt intake to 1500 mg or less. Processed foods are the main culprit when it comes to consuming salt, so avoid consuming processed foods as much as possible, and use only the necessary amount of salt in your dishes.
Quit smoking and limit your alcohol consumption. Ensure you sleep properly and sufficiently. These lifestyle changes will help lower your blood pressure. The term hypertension is used for a reason – long-term emotional tension increases BP; therefore, try to solve the cause of stress as early as possible.
High blood pressure and lifestyle are linked – lifestyle changes can help control, manage, and lower your HBP. Consult Dr. Storch to receive a personalized plan to lower your blood pressure – he will evaluate your present health condition, diagnostic reports, age, and other factors to prepare a perfect HBP control and management plan for you.
