High blood pressure or hypertension is a serious medical condition that can lead to death if not identified and managed early enough. It is essential to take several tests to determine whether you have the condition.
Below are five things you should know about High Blood Pressure
High Blood Pressure is a Silent Killer
Unfortunately, there are no apparent symptoms when it comes to hypertension, precisely why nearly half of people with the condition don’t have a diagnosis. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), approximately 46% of Americans have high blood pressure, but they don’t know about it yet! Most symptoms of high blood pressure are similar to common ailments, a factor that often leads to the underestimation of the symptoms.
You Need to Check your Blood Pressure Regularly
Before a medical professional makes a high blood pressure diagnosis, you should undertake several tests. Having normal blood pressure doesn’t mean that you neglect to take the tests in the future altogether. Regular testing will help to diagnose hypertension early enough to allow your physician to take adequate management measures.
Hypertension Can Lead to Other Conditions
Did you know that hypertension is a risk factor for stroke, heart attack, aneurysm, and heart failure? It is crucial to check your blood pressure regularly to reduce the risk of contracting these potentially fatal heart conditions. The best way to maintain and improve your heart health is through regular checks, which will help to diagnose and manage the disease early enough.
Lifestyle Changes Can Help Control Hypertension
High blood pressure is a lifestyle disease. That is, your lifestyle determines whether or not you gradually develop high blood pressure. Habits like smoking and excessive drinking increase the chances of high blood pressure and can even accelerate the rate of developing further heart-related complications. Dropping negative habits will almost certainly improve your heart health.
Exercise Is Essential
Regular exercise will help you to avoid hypertension. And, if you receive a diagnosis of high blood pressure, regular workouts can help to manage and treat the condition. You should aim to exercise at least four days a week. The good thing, though, is that you don’t have to participate in vigorous exercise regimens to get your heart in order.
A simple walk or jog every other day is enough to improve your overall health. Swimming and cycling are other alternatives that you can take up to strengthen your heart muscles.
While hypertension is not life-threatening, it can lead to severe conditions that could prove fatal if not managed or treated on time. We recommend regular testing to know your pressure levels. Testing once in a while is not enough; you need to check at least once a year to be on the safe side. You should also avoid unnecessary stress and harmful habits like smoking to reduce the chances of high blood pressure.
It is vital to have adequate skills and knowledge on how to manage heart emergencies. Enroll for our CPR programs for non-healthcare professionals to learn more about heart conditions and the best ways to provide first aid to your loved ones with heart disease. After enrolling in Citywide CPR, expect to get a certification once you complete our instructor-led CPR classes.
