In case your blood pressure went high what is the best thing to do?

We usually know high blood pressure also as hypertension.The reading of blood pressure is always done using 2 digits - for example 13/8 means 130 millimetres of Mercury for the maximum blood pressure (systolic) and 80 millimetres of Mercury for the minimum blood pressure (diastolic). Reference value varies depending on specific situations, but, in general, an elevated blood pressure reading of over 140/90 is considered high as the risk for cardiovascular condition and other diseases rises, too; while a 120/80 indicates a normal level.

Persistent hypertension is one of the common triggers for stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and arterial aneurysm, eye disease, and is a leading cause of chronic kidney failure. It also leads to shortened life expectancy.

High blood pressure has to be prevented or controlled. Never, never, never ignore or take a high blood pressure condition for granted.If left unattended for a significant period of time the probability of developing complications would be greater, so much so,that sooner or later, as the condition worsens itmay becomeirreversible with more complications requiringcostly treatments. Thus, knowing what to do with high blood pressure is an important health concern.

• Have a good start by having your overall health condition regularly monitored most especially for the elderly or persons aged 60 and above. Be proactive since it is possible that no symptom may occur.High blood pressure is a silent killer. Make sure to undergo a regular routine medical check-up at least on an annual basis or even more often.Middle aged persons or those whose age is between 45 to 59 years old and with history of hypertension in the family should also be watchful.
• If necessary,paying your cardiologist or a heart specialist a visit will do youa lot of good. Keep in mind, though, that a multiple reading may be warranted to determine whether a person would really require treatments. Sometimes, to certain individuals, a mere presence in a medical clinic triggers a stressor which causes abnormal elevation in their blood pressure.
• At an early stage, dietary and lifestyle changes can improve blood pressure control and decrease the risk of associated health complications.Dietary modifications usually focus on reduced sodium or salt intake, zero bad fats, less alcoholic drinks, eating a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Committing to a fundamental lifestyle change is critical, such as, staying physically fit or undertaking weight management program which makes one lose extra pounds through regular exercise and workouts; eliminating smoking totally; living a stress-free life , or at the very least , learning how to cope with stress; and getting plenty of sleep can help, too. Proper exercise can also enhance the efficacy of your high blood medications; however, make sure to check with your doctor first before embarking on any type of physical workout or fitness program.

Drug treatment may prove necessary in patients for whom lifestyle changes prove ineffective or insufficient. Your cardiologist knows best what to do with your high blood pressure. Never self medicate. Consult and follow the doctor’s orders andprescriptionsby taking your medicines on time and regularly without skipping a dose. During your first visits, initial evaluation and tests will have to be done to you.

The doctor will check whether you are responding well to his prescribed medication.If he finds it necessary, the doctor may change your medications until he finds the ones that will help control your blood pressure.As a patient you need to be extra patient, especially,if your doctor assessed that a maintenance drug is already necessary,then, be ready to take high blood pressure medications for the rest of your life. Lifestyle changes are still necessary and are, of course,adjunct to taking hypertension drugs.

However, just like with any other medications, high blood pressure drugs may carry with them some side effects, such as, headache, weakness, joint or muscles pain, diuretics, coughs, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, muscle pain, and low heart rate, among others. High blood pressure drugs that are available in the market and are widely used by patients worldwide are supposed to have been cleared from cancer risks. But just to double check, you can google it to do some research.

To eliminate or, at least, to minimize the possible side effects of taking drugs, this approach can be complemented by natural ways to manage blood pressure.