Hypertension treatment often involves a combination of medical and nonmedical interventions. Your primary care provider can help you monitor your blood pressure and may even recommend medication to help keep it in check. However, successful hypertension treatment relies partly on the patient's efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure or HBP is a common condition in which the force of blood flow against artery walls is too high. A blood pressure reading of 130/80 is considered high; if it is over 180/120, it is considered severe. If left untreated, hypertension can cause disability, organ damage, and death. Therefore, monitoring blood pressure regularly and treating hypertension is a priority for a primary care provider.
In addition to hypertension treatment and monitoring from their primary care provider, here are 5 important lifestyle changes patients can make to keep their blood pressure under control.
Smoking and alcohol overconsumption both contribute to high blood pressure. Quitting smoking can significantly lower blood pressure as well as reduce the risk of heart disease and lung cancer. Overconsumption of alcohol can raise blood pressure by several points. Therefore, doctors suggest men limit their drinking to two drinks per day and women to one drink per day.
Poor sleep quality and quantity are responsible for a number of health problems, a key one being hypertension. According to The Mayo Clinic, sleeping less than six hours a night for multiple weeks contributes to high blood pressure. Steps patients can take to get better sleep include:
Patients must also talk to their primary care provider if they think they are having issues such as sleep apnea.
Too much stress is unpleasant and unhealthy for several reasons, including its contribution to hypertension. Doctors recommend patients look for ways to reduce their daily stress. Practices such as breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga can be helpful, as can finding time for other activities and hobbies one enjoys. If stress continues to be a problem, the patient may want to explore forms of talk therapy to help them manage their stress.
What people eat plays a huge role in their health. That is why those with HBP need to eat a healthy and balanced diet of whole grains, vegetables, fruit, lean meat, and low-fat dairy products. A low-sodium diet is also key, and even a small reduction in salt can significantly lower blood pressure.
Having a regular workout routine, along with a healthy diet and stress reduction, helps keep weight under control and blood pressure in check. Healthcare professionals typically recommend 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise most days. However, patients should consult their primary care provider about a safe exercise program. Finding one a patient enjoys and can easily fit into their day is a plus.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level. Our primary care team can give you the tools you need to manage your blood pressure. Call us today to learn more about hypertension treatment options.
Request an appointment here: https://primarycarefriscotx.com or call Delc Medical Center at (469) 287-4509 for an appointment in our Frisco office.
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