HYPERTENSION
Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the blood vessels in the body. Hypertension occurs when blood pressure remains too high for an extended period.
Blood pressure is measured by two numbers. The upper (systolic) number represents the pressure in blood vessels when the heartbeats. The lower (diastolic) number represents the pressure in the vessels when the heart rests.
If the systolic blood pressure reading is above 140 mmHg and/or the diastolic blood pressure reading above 90 mmHg, it is called high blood pressure (hypertension) .
High blood pressure mostly doesn’t show up in the form of warning signs or symptoms. When symptoms do happen, they are early morning headaches, nosebleeds, irregular heartbeat patterns, changes in vision, and buzzing in the ears.
VERY IMPORTANTLY :- The only way to detect high blood pressure is by measuring the blood pressure. Individuals can measure their blood pressure using blood pressure monitors (either electronic or mercury monitors).
How to Prevent Hypertension?
To prevent high blood pressure, one needs to follow certain changes in lifestyle such as:
- Reduce the salt intake to less than 5g daily.
- Consume more fruit and vegetables.
- Be physically active daily – exercise regularly
- Avoid smoking and other forms of tobacco.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Reduce the intake of foods high in fats.
- Check your blood pressure regularly.
For more information, consult your pharmacist.