Control Your Blood Pressure: What You Need to Know

Managing blood pressure effectively can significantly improve quality of life.

In today’s article, we’ll clarify what it is, why it’s important to control your blood pressure and learn some healthy habits to help you have overall well-being.

1. What is hypertension?

Blood pressure is the force that blood exerts against the walls of blood vessels. This process causes it to be pumped to all parts of the body. When this pressure is high, it is called hypertension.

To be considered “Normal” your measurement values ​​must be less than or equal to 120 x 80 mmHg (12 x 8). If the values ​​are equal to or above 140 x 80 mmHg (14 x 8), they are considered hypertension and require more careful attention.

2. Causes of Hypertension

Although the exact cause of hypertension in many cases is unknown, several factors can contribute to its development:

• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity.
• Overweight: Excess weight increases the heart’s workload and blood vessels.
• Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to increased blood pressure
• Excessive salt consumption
• And some health complications

These factors can raise blood pressure.  Therefore, it is important to take some preventive measures.

3. Why is it important to control blood pressure?

Controlling blood pressure is essential, as high levels can lead to health complications.

Adopting healthy habits and correctly following medical treatment is a way of prevention and ensuring a better quality of life.

Remember: Prevention is the best medicine!

4. Treatment

When referring to treatment, it is not just about taking the medications prescribed by your doctor and measuring your blood pressure.

It is necessary to make lifestyle changes and adopt new healthy habits.

It is worth mentioning that, before adopting any habit into your routine, consult your doctor so that they can advise you specifically on your case.

In this regard, some measures help in the prevention and control of hypertension. Here are a few:

• Control body weight
• Balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, etc.
• Reduce caffeine consumption
• Reduce salt consumption in food preparation
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Manage stress levels-(We have a post that can help you!)

5. How to Monitor Blood Pressure at Home?

Control your blood pressure at home with devices specifically designed for this purpose.

They can be very useful if your doctor indicates that you should check your pressure regularly.

Measuring blood pressure at home is very easy, but there are some precautions to ensure that the values are accurate and unaltered.

Here are some recommendations:

• Sit calmly with your back supported and your feet on the floor.
• Avoid eating, drinking caffeine or elements that may affect blood pressure at least 30 minutes before the measurement.
• If you have engaged in any physical activity, rest for 60 to 90 minutes before measuring;
• Rest for 5 to 10 minutes before the assessment;
• Do not talk during the procedure

Write down the readings, including the date and time, to monitor variations over time.

Consulting a healthcare professional to interpret readings and adjust any treatment is essential.

Conclusion

Effectively managing your blood pressure is crucial for maintaining overall health and ensure your general well-being

As highlighted in this article, understanding what hypertension is and recognizing its causes are key to taking proactive steps towards better health.

By integrating healthy habits into your daily routine, such as: regular physical activity, a balanced diet and stress management. and  following medical advice y ou guarantee a full and balanced life. Carrying out check-ups regularly is extremely important.

Your commitment today can lead to a healthier and more fulfilling tomorrow.  So take care!