F . A . Q
General Frequently Asked Questions
A Healthy You is the greatest gift you can give your family and the world !
Who can get High Blood Pressure ?
Despite so much research, it is still not clearly known why some people get High Blood Pressure (HBP) and others are spared. What is clear, however is that those who are overweight, have diabetes, are stressed or even have a relative who suffers from HBP, usually get HBP.
Smokers and obese people have more chance of getting HBP. Poor blood supply to the kidny can also cause HBP.
How does Salt and being overweight affect BP ?
A high-salt diet or overweight (obesity) are the most important reason in the causation of HBP. Obesity burdens teh heart and the lungs and thus, forces these vital organs to work harder.
Also eating more salt retains more water in the body, and this in turn results in the increase of blood pressure.
How does HBP affects us ?
Constant High Blood Pressure makes the heart work against a higher load and so it may enlarge and ultimately fail. When vital organs like brain, eyes and kidney are supplied blood at a high pressure they may gradually be damage, ultimately resulting in severe illness. Small blood vessels in the eye or brain may even rupture leading to 'Haemorrhage'.
To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.
Diagnosis and treatment of HBP
One or two mm higher than optimal measurements of HBP should not label you as a patient of HBP. You must get repeated confirmations of higher than normal BP values before beginning treatment.
You must rest and relax before your BP is checked.
Treatment for High BP
Reduce weight if you are overweight; restrict salt in food. Bring down BP to acceptable levels is the primary aim of treatment. Prevention of damage to vital organs like heart, brain, kidneys and eyes is very important in the long run.
Prevention of vital organ is possible only by reducing BP. This is done with medicine and a change in lifestyle. Never change teh dose of your medicine on your own. Never stop medicines suddenly.
Cane weight loss reduce high BP ?
If you are over weight, and you change your dietary habits and reduce your weight by 5 to 10 kg gradually, your BP will decrease. Salt restriction in your diet will also help reduce BP.
Right amount of regular exercise will help you reduce weight.
We do not stop exercising because we grow old – we grow old because we stop exercising.
How can you take care of yourself ?
Follow the treatment schedule prescribed by your doctor. In addition :
- Avoid Smoking and chewing tobacco
- Reduce salt, fatty foods and cholesterol-rich foods from your diet
- Learn to reduce mental stress by various means including yoga, exercise, meditation etc.
- Exercise regularly under the guidance of your doctor
- get your BP checked regularly. You may even buy a BP instrument (sphygmomanometer) and learn how to measure your BP at home.
How can you prevent HBP ?
- Maintain ideal weight
- Exercise regularly
- Do not smoke or chew tobacco
- Reduce your liquor intake, in case you drink alcohol
- Reduce your salt intake
Can you get Low BP ?
Your BP may occasionally go lower than 120/80, say 90/60. This is usually not a serious problem. However if you feel giddy or dizzy, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
Make your own RECOVERY the first PRIORITY in your life.
