Our body and brain are irrigated by a complex network of blood vessels of various sizes that can be compared to hoses. Our heart pumps blood into this network to deliver the nutrients and oxygen that our cells and organs need. When blood vessels become obstructed, it's just like stepping on a garden hose - the resistance will increase the pressure. This abnormal increase in pressure is, in fact, hypertension.
Hypertension is serious and must not go untreated. It increases the risk of angina, heart attacks, peripheral vascular disease, erectile dysfunction and kidney damage. It can also damage your arteries and put a strain on your heart. Fortunately, some methods exist for preventing and treating hypertension.
Learn more about these methods by reading the following:
Hypertension: some statistics
Cardiovascular disease is widespread in Canada - in fact, it is the leading cause of death.
Hypertension is found in:
- 1 out of every 5 Canadian adults
- 1 out of every 2 Canadians over age 50
According to research conducted so far:
- Smoking and a high cholesterol level do not directly affect blood pressure, but they greatly add to your health risk, especially if you already have high blood pressure.
- Smokers have twice the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Symptoms?
One of the major problems with hypertension is the lack of symptoms or prior signs. Therefore, hypertension is normally diagnosed during a routine check-up. Unfortunately, at times, it is detected only when a patient suffers a stroke or has a heart attack or other health complication.
Who's at risk?
Basically, everyone is at risk because the causes of hypertension are not always clear. However, researchers have established that certain factors can increase the risk of developing hypertension. These include:
- Lack of physical activity
- Excess body weight or the accumulation of abdominal fat tissue
- A high-sodium (salt) diet
- Excess consumption of alcohol.
In addition, the risk is greater if you are over age 40, are a male, have a family history of hypertension, have diabetes or are subject to intense and sustained stress.
How can hypertension be prevented or treated?
Unfortunately, it is impossible to completely reverse hypertension. However, recent findings clearly show that it is possible to control the condition with medication and a healthy lifestyle.
Medication
In recent years, research has produced a variety of highly effective medications for treating hypertension. The effectiveness of medication can be greatly enhanced when combined with positive lifestyle adjustments.
Preventive screening
Preventive screening is essential for detecting this "silent killer," which may exhibit no signs before causing serious damage to your health.
Lifestyle changes
Studies have shown that by making lifestyle changes, it is possible not only to prevent hypertension, but also to significantly lower blood pressure. How? Here are a few tips:
- Gradually include physical activity into your regular routine and you will quickly notice the benefits.
- Add fruit, vegetables and foods rich in potassium (bananas, oranges, melons, kiwis, potatoes, tomatoes, milk, nuts, whole grain cereals, etc.) to your diet.
- Eat lighter meals and lower your blood pressure by reducing your fat and salt intake.
- Aim to reach and maintain your healthy weight.
- Be sure to take your medication as prescribed by your physician.
- Check your blood pressure and have it tested at least every two years after the age of 20.
- Respect the recommended level of alcohol consumption and try to quit smoking.
- Try to understand the stressors in your life and learn how to manage them better.
- Be sure to take time for yourself so you can relax.
It's up to you!