Understanding and Managing High Blood Pressure: Causes & Solutions

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a common disorder, especially as people age. People who have high blood pressure may feel dizzy or experience headaches before they are treated for the condition. Left untreated, high blood pressure can damage your arteries and present a greater risk for heart disease, stroke or aneurysm. Luckily, high blood pressure is a condition that can be controlled with medications and lifestyle changes.

Facts

• High blood pressure is defined as being higher than 140/90 mm Hg in healthy adults. People with diabetes and kidney disease are considered to have hypertension if readings are over 130/90 mm Hg.

Stress

• Lowering stress levels is a remedy for high blood pressure. Yoga and meditation can help relax your mind and body. Deep breathing can also help reduce stress.

Diet

• Avoiding foods with a high sodium content helps to bring high blood pressure levels down. Those with high blood pressure should eat heart-healthy foods that are high in fiber and low in saturated fats.

Weight

• Maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to a drop in your blood pressure. An individual with high blood pressure should undertake a weight loss plan under the supervision of a physician.

Medications

• A variety of drugs can be used to control high blood pressure. Beta blockers, diuretics, alpha blockers and ACE inhibitors help open the blood vessels and rid the body of excess water and salt.

Warning

• Smoking and excessive alcohol use can cause your blood pressure to rise. To lower your blood pressure, quit smoking and limit your alcohol intake to two drinks a day.