Misconceptions about High Blood Pressure

High Blood Pressure is a condition that raises so much concern and worries especially when a family member, loved ones, friends or oneself is affected and it is not absurd for one to be worried. If high blood pressure is left untreated, it could result in some complications which includes heart diseases and stroke. Prompt information and early diagnosis are key for prevention and better prognosis of hypertension. This article will give you an insight on the misconceptions of high blood pressure.

First misconception of High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure isn’t a big deal.

Unfortunately, people usually have high blood pressure unknown to them as this doesn’t have an early sign or symptoms. When the pressure of Blood exerted on the blood vessels are extremely high, they become stiffened and this causes problems. In turn this leads to damages on the blood vessels, heart, kidneys and other vital organs. This damage over time can lead to death which explains why hypertension is referred to as the silent killer. So we the professionals agree that hypertension is a Big Deal, maybe not so big if diagnosed on time but if left untreated, it is definitely a big Deal.

To understand the numbers, normal blood pressure is less than 120 over less than 80 (<120/<80); elevated is 120-129 over less than 80 (120-129/<80); hypertension stage 1 is 130-139 or 80-89; and hypertension stage 2 is greater than 140 or greater than 90 (≥140 or ≥90).

Second Misconception Is That; High blood pressure can’t be prevented.

This belief is usually from those whose family history is positive for high Blood Pressure, or those who belong to the high risks group be it age, race or body weight. Such misconceptions will be cleared here, even if you belong to the high risk group, there are some steps you can take to prevent high blood pressure

• Keep your weight at a healthy level. You can accomplish this by a combination of healthy eating which includes fruits and vegetables and regular exercise.
• Eat a healthy diet. This includes eating only the amount of food your body needs and choosing foods high in nutrients and low in fat, sugar, and salt.
• Limit how much salt you eat. Most of the sodium you eat is in the form of salt. It may be salt that you add at the table or salt added to processed foods you consume. Always check the food labels to be sure of the quantity of sodium in it.
• Limit how much alcohol you drink.
• Don’t smoke tobacco, and minimize your exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Get regular exercise. Try to get at least 30 minutes of activity each day, at least five days a week. Exercise relieves stress and helps you control your weight. It could be walks, swimming, yoga etc..
• Don’t let stress build up. The chemicals your body makes in response to stress make your heart beat harder and faster and your blood vessels tighten. All this makes blood pressure higher.
• Ensure you take enough rest and sleep

Third Misconception About High Blood Pressure: It’s OK As Long As One Number Is Normal

A correct blood pressure reading comprises of the numerator and denominator, the numerator is called the systolic blood pressure and it is the pressure of the blood exerted through the blood vessels while the heart is beating . The normal value of the systolic ranges from 119-130. Below 119 is indicative of low blood pressure while above 130 is Indicative of high blood pressure.

The denominator is refered to as the Diastolic blood pressure and it is the pressure of the blood through the blood vessels in-between heart beats when the heart is at rest. The normal value of the Diastolic Blood Pressure ranges between 70 and 89, above 89 is indicative of hypertension.

Blood pressure could vary throughout the day depending on your activity. It also changes over time . Systolic blood pressure tends to increase with age while diastolic blood pressure reduces with age.

Do not disregard any blood pressure reading that has been consistently high, see your doctor or health care provider in order to sort out the management approach and also desist from self medication.

Fourth Misconception About High Blood Pressure Is About Treatment

It is true that the treatment of hypertension could include some food restrictions, also the drugs could cause some annoying side effects.  It is also true that it may take some time to develop a treatment plan that works best for you, because high blood pressure often has several underlying causes. In many cases, the specific cause of high blood pressure may not be idiopathic.

The treatment plan for hypertension is likely to include the following strategies

• The DASH eating plan. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) plan includes eating less fat and saturated fat as well as eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and whole-grain foods. Limiting use of salt and alcohol can also help lower your high blood pressure. You can be refered to a dietitian who can help you find ways to meet these goals without giving up your favorite foods or great flavor.

• Weight Control. Being overweight increases your risk of developing high blood pressure. Following the DASH eating plan and getting regular exercise can help you lose weight. Your doctor can equally refer you to a professional to assist you meet your weight lost goal.

• Decreasing the amount of alcohol you consume. Alcohol may increase your blood pressure, as well, especially if you are drinking too much. Cutting back or abstaining might be essential in reducing your blood pressure or keeping it under control

• Quit smoking. Tobacco smoke can make blood pressure rise. It can also directly damage your heart and blood vessels. Talk with your health care provider about ways to quit.

• Medication. Your doctor is likely to prescribe medication to control your high blood pressure. It’s common to take more than one drug to treat high blood pressure. Your doctor may ask you to switch drugs or change the dosage until you find a combination that works best to control high blood pressure with the fewest side effects for you. Medications used to treat high blood pressure include:
• Diuretics to reduce the amount of fluid in your blood by helping your body rid itself of extra sodium
• ACE inhibitors, alpha-blockers, and calcium channel blockers to help keep your blood vessels from tightening
• Beta-blockers to prevent your body from making the hormone adrenaline; adrenaline is a stress hormone that makes your heart beat harder and faster. It also makes your blood vessels tighten. All of this makes blood pressure higher. The medication slows your heart rate, decreasing your blood pressure.

Fifth Misconception About High Blood Pressure: Treatment Doesn’t Work

You must be actively involved in your management plan with your health care provider, this will Maximize the outcome of the plan which could include;

• Checking your blood pressure as often as recommended by your doctor.
• Following your treatment plan consistently. Let your doctor know right away if you have problems with parts of the plan. Your doctor may refer you to other health care professionals who can help.
• Seeing your doctor as often as requested. Bring your blood pressure records to show your doctor how the plan is working.
• Asking your doctor or pharmacist for information about medication side effects. Know when to call your doctor if there is a problem.
• Reducing how much salt you take in.
• Having adequate rest and sleep.