Treatments for Hypertension
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
It is a chronic condition that can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
In this section below, we will discuss hypertension in detail, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments.
What is Hypertension?
Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of arteries. Hypertension occurs when this pressure is consistently higher than normal. The normal blood pressure range is typically considered to be 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) or lower. However, blood pressure readings can vary depending on age, gender, and other factors.
When blood pressure is consistently above the normal range, it can cause damage to the heart, blood vessels, and other organs. Hypertension is classified as either primary or secondary. Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is the most common type and has no identifiable cause. Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, is caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, or obstructive sleep apnea.
When blood pressure is consistently above the normal range, it can cause damage to the heart, blood vessels, and other organs. Hypertension is classified as either primary or secondary. Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is the most common type and has no identifiable cause. Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, is caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, or obstructive sleep apnea.
What are the symptoms of Hypertension?
Most people with hypertension have no symptoms at all. In fact, hypertension is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it can cause damage to the body without any obvious symptoms. Some people may experience headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds, but these symptoms are not specific to hypertension and can occur with other conditions as well.
How is Hypertension Diagnosed?
Hypertension is diagnosed through a simple test called a blood pressure reading. This test measures the pressure of blood against the walls of arteries in the body. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure (the higher number) and diastolic pressure (the lower number). A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered hypertension.
It is important to note that blood pressure can vary throughout the day and can be influenced by factors such as stress, exercise, and medication. For this reason, it is important to have multiple blood pressure readings over time to confirm a diagnosis of hypertension.
It is important to note that blood pressure can vary throughout the day and can be influenced by factors such as stress, exercise, and medication. For this reason, it is important to have multiple blood pressure readings over time to confirm a diagnosis of hypertension.
How is Hypertension Treated?
Lets just get things clear, we are not medical professionals in this field, it is crucial that you first seek the advice of your GP or medical professional.
The goal of hypertension treatment is to lower blood pressure to a safe range and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment typically includes lifestyle changes and medication. At Health Renewed we help you mainly with the lifestyle change.
Lifestyle changes that can help manage hypertension include:
The goal of hypertension treatment is to lower blood pressure to a safe range and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment typically includes lifestyle changes and medication. At Health Renewed we help you mainly with the lifestyle change.
Lifestyle changes that can help manage hypertension include:
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Quitting smoking
- Diuretics: These medications help the body get rid of excess sodium and water, which can help lower blood pressure.
- ACE inhibitors: These medications relax blood vessels and help lower blood pressure.
- Calcium channel blockers: These medications relax blood vessels and decrease the heart's workload, which can help lower blood pressure.
- Beta-blockers: These medications slow the heart rate and decrease the heart's workload, which can help lower blood pressure.
Lifestyle changes can have a huge effect on Hypertension, we utilise Health Coaching to great effect to help you heal and hopefully avoid or reduce the need for medications (only after consulting your GP). We are fully qualified coaches and can help you lead a healthier and hopefully happier life.
Please get in contact for a free initial chat about what we can do for you.