|
Blood
pressure is pressure in the arteries as the heart pumps
blood around the body.
What to look for
There are generally no
symptoms for high blood pressure as the early stages of hypertension may
take a few years to develop
A higher than normal
blood pressure. Normal for young and middle aged adults is a pressure of
120/80. A pressure of 140/90 is definitely something to be concerned
about. If the pressure is 160/95 it requires treatment.
Blackouts, a minor
stroke are indications that your blood pressure is too high and can be
fatal if it is not treated.
swollen ankles
shortness of breath
headaches, dizziness and nose
bleeds
Traditional Treatment
Your doctor will give you
a thorough examination to check if your blood pressure
is the result of another disease such as Cushing’s
disease or kidney problems however, usually there is no
immediate cause for the high blood pressure.
It is advisable that if over
weight, the patient try to stay within your recommended weight level. Also
try to avoid salt in your diet and reduce stress levels in your lifestyle.
Exercise is also recommended.
If you have a stressful job,
some doctors will advise you to give it up and take some time off to rest
completely.
These lifestyle changes quite
often bring the blood pressure down considerably.
A doctor will prescribe
medication for you if the above approaches and lifestyle changes still do
not bring the blood pressure down. Some of these drugs will have side
effects which can be serious. Your doctor will know which drugs should be
given to you and will explain all the side effects to you. The doctor will
keep a close check on the patient to take the blood pressure and watch for
possible side effects.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Body/Mind Work -
Yoga,
Meditation and other relaxation techniques can help relax the patient and lower the stress
levels. Yoga,
Meditation and other relaxation techniques can help relax the patient and lower the stress
levels.
Herbal
Remedies - Hawthorn,
dandelion and linden,
garlic
and
ginger are helpful for blood pressure problems.
Dietary Considerations
Eat less salt -
best of all try to avoid it altogether (use herbs, garlic and ginger instead)
Avoid heavily salted food
(such as packaged food)
Try to eat more dairy
products - low fat one only. You may be low on calcium.
Avoid too much alcohol as
this can raise blood pressure.
Give up smoking as this
can harden the arteries and cause coronary heart disease.
When to seek further
professional advice
if your blood pressure is
over the recommended level
if you have any of the
symptoms listed above
if you are on medication
for high blood pressure and are suffering any side effect - see your doctor
immediately.
|
