Health Tips For Stay Healthy

HYPERTENSION (HBP, High Blood Pressure)

DEFINITION
High blood pressure is a sign that the heart and blood vessels are being overworked. It is sometimes called "the silent killer" because it often has no early symptoms. Untreated, it can lead to arteriosclerosis and congestive heart failure. Heart disease contributes to 75% of all heart attacks and strokes.

COMPLICATION
Stroke; heart attack; kidney failure; congestive heart failure and pulmonary edema.

RECOMMENDATIONS
› Lifestyle changes to reduce stress.
› Weight loss, smoking cessation, exercise, and reduction in alcohol consumption.
› A strict salt-free diet. Salt can increase your blood volume, making your heart pump harder and driving up your blood pressure.
› A whole foods diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, a high-fiber diet, and healthy fats (monounsaturated and omega-3s) will help keep your blood pressure at healthy levels.
› Non-prescription cold and allergy remedies should be avoided.
› Stress and anxiety are huge contributors to HBP. Both stimulate your nervous system to raise levels of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol that narrow blood vessels and thus, over time, can increase your risk of developing hypertension. The mind-body disciplines like yoga, meditation, and tai chi, which studies show can help decrease blood pressure.