Blood Pressure Control – How to Maintain a Healthy Life
Blood pressure control is important in that it can potentially save a hypertensive patient’s life. High blood pressure or hypertension is the force exerted on the artery walls by the blood flowing through the body. When the force is challenged, the pressure of the blood elevates. This elevated pressure can cause more serious complications; therefore it must be treated effectively.
High blood pressure has no significant signs or symptoms and is often referred to as the “silent killer.” Consequently, many Americans have developed the condition, yet they are not aware of it.
The American Heart Association documents that an estimate of 50million Americans suffer from high blood pressure and requires ongoing medical attention to maintain proper blood pressure control.
Healthcare professionals implement a well- rounded individualized treatment plan to decrease the pressure as well as control progression. Each treatment plan is designed to accommodate existing and pre-existing factors that may induce the development of the condition.
Initially, the healthcare professional will prescribe certain antihypertensive medications. These drugs are used to immediately lower the blood pressure levels.
One of the most common drugs for blood pressure control is the calcium channel blocking agents (channel blockers or calcium antagonists). These channel blockers reduce the force of contraction of muscles of the heart and muscle.
Another drug used to reduce blood pressure is the peripheral vasodilators. Hydralazine (Apresoline), isoxsuprine (Vasodilan), and minoxidil (Loniten) act as blood vessel relaxers. Yet another antihypertensive drug is the thiazide diuretics. The diurectics promote sodium loss thereby lowering blood volume. More so, the thiazide diuretics helps lower the pressure of the walls of the blood vessels; which is also referred to as the peripheral vascular resistance.
Blood pressure control can also be accomplished by implementing daily healthy lifestyle changes. These changes may include a healthy eating plan, weight loss, and exercise.
Healthcare professionals suggest that a healthy diet, which should consist of fruits and vegetables, low- sodium intake and foods that are low in fats and cholesterol. Obesity plays a major role in elevated blood pressure.
Changing your diet and incorporating physical activity into your daily routine will help you lose and maintain a healthy body weight. Lastly, exercise will not only help you lose weight, it will assist with improving the overall health.
Believe it or not, exercise does not require much effort. Light to moderate physical activity, such as walking, bicycling, or even yoga can significantly lower blood pressure. Exercise is also known to minimize the need for medications and reduce the effects of annoying side effects.
