Handling High Hypertension Effectively
Hypertension, the medical term for high blood pressure, can be debilitating. However, it has few symptoms which are immediately apparent, so it is a tricky condition to pick up on. Left undiagnosed, hypertension can cause a range of medical problems. For example, the condition is known to have an impact on kidney disease, heart failure and on eyesight. Although measures like cataract surgery can help a great deal, it is better to deal with the issue before matters get out of hand. At its worst, hypertension can lead to serious problems like heart attacks, strokes and aneurysms.
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Check Your Own Blood Pressure
Dealing with hypertension means being able to spot you have a problem in the first place. Although most medical professionals will confirm your blood pressure routinely when you go for a check-up, it is quite possible for you to do this for yourself. These days, blood pressure kits are available from general retailers. However, you should always make sure that you take a home reading when you are rested and not stressed out in any way. Some smartphone apps have also been developed which can help offer approximate readings, too.
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Reduce Your Blood Pressure
The effects of hypertension can lessen if you take all-round steps to reduce blood pressure. This often means making some lifestyle changes. Stopping smoking and cutting down on the amount of caffeine you consume are two big steps which will have an almost immediate impact. Furthermore, taking less salt in your diet will also help. Overweight people tend to suffer from a greater degree of hypertension than those who are not obese, so weight loss can also be beneficial. Even if you are not overweight, taking regular exercise is also known to reduce blood pressure. Finally, cutting back on alcohol consumption tends to help, too.
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Know If You Are In An At-Risk Group
Some people are more prone to hypertension than others. It is just bad luck if you happen to fall into a group that is known to be more susceptible to high blood pressure, but knowing you are more likely to be affected can help you to take the necessary counter measures. As mentioned, obese people are more likely to be at risk. In addition, anyone who is over 65 years of age is more likely to suffer from hypertension. People of African and Caribbean descent are another at-risk group as are people who have had a long-term condition which means they don't sleep well. If you are in one or more of these groups, then test your blood pressure regularly to pick on problems early.
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