Hypertension is a major contributor to the cardiovascular disease burden around the world. It is estimated that more than 1.39 billion people are affected by hypertension, while the premature deaths due to hypertension exceed 10.4 million. If treated timely with the professional care of Vascular Surgeon in Lahore the outcome improves greatly with decreased incidence of complications.
Start thinking about hypertension before you have it
Blood pressure is not merely a number. The blood vessels are like the pipes of a house; high pressure is not going to damage one organ but rather all the organs supplied by those blood vessels. This is why people should take measures to prophylactically deal with hypertension as there is always age-related increase in blood pressures. For people with family history of hypertension, family history of heart disease, stroke, hypertension during pregnancy and kidney disease taking precautions is even more important.
Primary prevention can prevent end organ damage and greatly reduce the chances of other complications. According to researchers, the most important predictor of hypertension is: body weight. Therefore, weight reduction, even ten to fifteen pounds, can significantly lower blood pressure.
Little changes can make a big difference
The first step for management of hypertension is dietary modification. Non-pharmacological approaches for hypertension include: salt restriction, regular exercise and weight management. Sodium has a directly proportional relationship with high-blood pressure; even a single teaspoon of salt can raise the blood pressure significantly. Therefore, for both primary prevention and management of high-blood pressure, salt should be restricted in the diet.
DASH diet for hypertension
Both Mediterranean and DASH diet focus on lowering blood pressure. These diets restrict the intake of salt and processed foods, with more emphasis on the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. This balance of nutrients is ideal for maintaining the blood pressure in the optimal range.
Quit smoking
Cigarette smoke makes the blood vessels smaller, with more damage to their inside endothelium. This puts the person at risk not only for high blood pressure but also myocardial infarction or heart attack by throwing more clots towards the heart. Smoking cessation is therefore, mandatory for anyone looking to lower their blood pressure, and decreasing their risk of cardiovascular disease.
A new study analysis, with over three decades of data shows that smoking increases the pulse pressure in people, putting them more at risk of heart disease. This study, known as the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults or CARDIA, shows that the difference between the systolic blood pressure and the diastolic blood pressure is widened in smokers, compared to non-smokers. The CARDIA study shows the relation between long-term smokers and hypertension. The results from this study suggest that clinicians need to pay more attention to the widened pulse pressure in smokers, particularly in the young adults.
Relaxation techniques
The mechanism of action behind relaxation techniques and lowered blood pressure is not clear. It is thought that stress and the consequent vasoconstriction cause blood pressure to rise.
Get treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea contributes to poorly controlled blood pressure. When the upper airway is obstructed during sleep, it causes intermittent hypoxemia—lowered oxygen levels in the blood and increased sympathetic response. Obstructed sleep apnea is now recognized as a significant contributor to hypertension due to its effect on the blood vessels.
Limit the intake of alcohol
Another important modification factor for blood pressure reduction is limiting alcohol consumption. Meta-analysis and research data shows dose-response relationship between reduction of blood pressure and decreased alcohol consumption. For more information about the risk factors and non-pharmacological intervention of hypertension, professional help from Vascular Surgeon in Karachi should be sought.
