Simple Tips for Lowering Blood Pressure
According to research, it is estimated that around 103 million people in the country live with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. They also say that high blood pressure incidences rose by 38% between 2005 and 2015, killing around 79,000 people in this period. The AHA redefined high blood pressure as a reading of 130/80, from an earlier definition of a reading of 140/90. The first number is the systolic pressure (when your heart beats), and the second number is the diastolic pressure (between heartbeats). If you are living with this condition and looking for how to lower high blood pressure, it would be best to start by looking at the causes. What causes high blood pressure? Although the exact causes of high blood pressure have never been pinpointed, health experts agree that there are a number of indicators that lead to it. Lack of physical exercise and the attendant weight problems Kidney problems Disorders of the thyroid and adrenal glands Excessive alcohol consumption (more than 2 drinks per day) Excessive salt intake Sleep disorders Diabetes Smoking People over 65 years are more likely to have high blood pressure A history of high blood pressure in the family What are the risks of high blood pressure? High blood pressure increases the load on your cardiovascular system. The heart is forced to pump harder. Blood vessels get hardened and develop tears. Some of the serious health conditions that develop include: Stroke Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) Heart attack Loss of vision Kidney disorders/failure How to lower high blood pressure? A majority of people living with high blood pressure depend on medication, with more serious conditions requiring a daily dose. However, health experts recommend lifestyle adjustments to lower the risks of developing high blood pressure. Here are some tips on how to lower high blood pressure without necessarily depending on medications.