High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is the condition in which the body’s blood pressure reaches dangerously high levels. Blood pressure is the situation when blood exerts on artery walls and the resistance that the heart encounters during pumping. High blood pressure can lead to cardiovascular issues in some cases.
The two main types of hypertension are primary hypertension and secondary hypertension. Since mild cases may not show any symptoms, people may not be aware that they have high blood pressure. In severe cases, noticeable symptoms may be witnessed. Hypertension is frequently caused by underlying or related medical conditions. Taking blood pressure medication, cutting back on salt, and exercising frequently are usually necessary for effective management. Serious side effects, including heart attacks (acute myocardial infarction) and eye issues (retinopathy), can result from delayed diagnosis or treatment.
The cause of hypertension and the treatment plan selected will determine how it turns out. Severe effects are more likely to occur in people with diseases like diabetes. Lifelong commitment is necessary to manage high blood pressure, which includes regular medication and lifestyle modifications. Regular blood checkup, doctors’ advice, and timely interventions play a key role in maintaining blood pressure. Proper diet, exercises and healthy lifestyle are the key to reduce associated risks of blood pressure.
Blood pressure measurements
Blood pressure is typically measured with two numbers, systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. Systolic is the top number that represents the pressure of arteries when the heart beats and diastolic is the bottom number, represents the pressure of arteries when the heart rests between the beats. Both the numbers are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Here is a table of healthy and unhealthy blood pressure ranges.
| BLOOD PRESSURE CATEGORY | SYSTOLIC mm Hg (upper number) | and/or | DIASTOLIC mm Hg (lower number) |
| NORMAL | LESS THAN 120 | and | LESS THAN 80 |
| ELEVATED | 120 – 129 | and | LESS THAN 80 |
| HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE (HYPERTENSION) STAGE 1 | 130 – 139 | or | 80 – 89 |
| HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE (HYPERTENSION) STAGE 2 | 140 OR HIGHER | or | 90 OR HIGHER |
| HYPERTENSIVE CRISIS (consult your doctor immediately) | HIGHER THAN 180 | and/or | HIGHER THAN 120 |
Fluctuations in Blood Pressure
Fluctuations in blood pressure means periodic rises and drops in blood pressure level. BP does not always remain the same. It can go high or rise in the time of excitement or exercise. And in the same way, blood pressure goes down while you are resting. Blood pressure can also fluctuate depending upon age, medication and change in situation.
Rapid and frequent blood pressure fluctuations can be caused by stress, physical activity, dehydration, dietary choices, or medical conditions like hypertension, hypotension, or hormonal imbalances. Other factors like certain medications, excessive caffeine intake, and smoking can also play roles. Though minor changes are normal, frequent or extreme fluctuations can strain the heart and blood vessels. It can increase the risk of complications like stroke or heart disease.
Though it can be managed by healthy lifestyle maintenance, regular exercise, and yoga like Surya namaskar. Try some healthy foods like amla juice, green tea, ginger aloe vera juice to get enough nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, or antioxidants.
Blood Pressure Disorders
Blood pressure disorders typically include two types of problems. One is hypertension or high blood pressure and the other one is hypotension or low blood pressure. Hypertension is generally called the ‘silent killer’ because of its long term effects. It occurs when blood pressure consistently exceeds 120/80 mmHg. It increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage and even heart failure. Hypertension is linked to poor diet, stress, or genetics.
Hypotension happens when the blood pressure falls below 90/60 mmHg. This one is relatively less risky. Hypotension can cause dizziness, fainting, and shock in severe cases. It can result from dehydration, blood loss, or medication side effects. Both disorders require medical attention and lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
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How to reduce high blood pressure
High blood pressure can only be controlled if you take care of your lifestyle and food habits. Doctors advice to control daily diet and movements rather than medication. Doctors usually advice:
- To try more vegetables, fruits and greens rather than oily fried items, junk foods and fast foods.
- Regular exercise depending upon your age and strength. You can do daily yoga asanas or surya namaskar asanas for a controlled life. Here is some yoga for beginners‘ guidance.
- Do not consume caffeine and sugar in excessive quantities. If you are a tea freak, replace your cup with green tea or even herbal tea. Try to replace your sugar with honey or with brown sugar.
- Manage your stress to control your risks from blood pressure. It is an important factor to control your good health. Do take help with meditation, yoga and deep breathing for a better control over your stress.
When to check blood pressure
Blood pressure should be checked at least once every 1-2 years. This is for healthy adults and it should be checked more frequently if you have risk factors like heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension. Blood pressure should be checked during the specific time of the day. Like, for accurate readings, measure it in the morning before eating or taking medication, and again in the evening.
Rest for 5 minutes before measuring, sit upright, and avoid caffeine, alcohol, or exercise 30 minutes prior. If you get excited or breathing faster than normal rates, do not check at that time. And if you are under doctor’s supervision, do check your blood pressure at the same times daily for consistency.
Conclusion
High blood pressure may have become a matter of concern for a good number of people worldwide, but it can be managed with controlled lifestyle and care. Our food habit has become a problem these days. We have to be more careful of what is on our plates. Organic food options along with a proper diet and exercise routine can manage blood pressure to a great extent. Leafy greens, fruits, turmeric, ginger, oats, quinoa, brown rice, almonds, flaxseeds, and walnuts are some of the foods that can benefit you in this regard. But finding the authentic source of such items may seem problematic to you. That’s why Orgo All-Natural has brought a plethora of collections, do check out our website!
Reference
- AHAIASA Journals : Measurement of Blood Pressure in Humans: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute – High Blood Pressure Research
