How to Control Your High Blood Pressure

Millions of people are diagnosed each year with High Blood Pressure or Hypertension. High Blood Pressure is called "The Silent Killer" and for good reason because there are many people out there that are completely unaware that they even have the disease. You will learn what Hypertension is, what the symptoms are, and how you can manage and control the disease. Don't let Hypertension control you!

Hypertension and Its Symptoms!

What exactly is Hypertension? Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the arteries and throughout the day it goes up and down. However, when it stays up over a period of time, it is called Hypertension. When you have high blood pressure it puts you in a greater risk for congestive heart failure, a stroke, kidney disease, hardening of the arteries, heart attack or abnormal heart beats. But early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of these problems. Hypertension or High Blood Pressure is very dangerous because it makes the heart work much harder trying to pump blood throughout the body.

What are the symptoms? Most of the time there aren't any symptoms, in fact most people don't even know they have High Blood Pressure. If a person has severe Hypertension some of the symptoms could include: headaches, chest pains or tightness, feeling weak and tired, problems seeing or hearing, feeling dizzy or lightheaded or shortness of breath.
Blood pressure that rises very quickly is called Malignant Hypertension. If yours rises very quickly you need to go directly to the hospital because if it is not treated immediately it can cause permanent brain, heart, or kidney damage.

Types and Conditions!

How many types are there? Actually there are two, Essential Hypertension, which has no known cause and Secondary Hypertension, which has a known cause. There are four conditions that can cause Secondary Hypertension: they are sleep arena, kidney disease, hormonal disorders and abnormal arteries. It has been found that some over-the-counter pain killers, along with oral steroids, oral contraceptives, nasal decongestants and cocaine can lead to Secondary Hypertension.

Manage and Treat the Disease!

What Can You Do To Manage Your Hypertension? A change of lifestyle might be a great place to start. Talk with your doctor about getting into a regular exercise program or try getting out each day for a brisk walk. Medical experts say that you should reduce your salt intake, because to much sodium can raise your blood pressure and cause water retention in your body. Drinking alcohol can raise your blood pressure and damage your heart, liver and brain, so try and rid yourself of this bad habit. Smoking as well is not healthy, not only does it contribute to high blood pressure and cause damage to your heart but it is extremely bad for your lungs. A much healthier diet is extremely necessary.

You can start by putting more fiber in your diet, and get enough potassium, calcium and magnesium. These minerals are found in most fruits and vegetables. Try and reduce the stress in your life. Lighten up, laugh more, have fun and enjoy life. There are also medications available that your doctor can prescribe to control Hypertension but be real careful because the wrong prescriptions can cause problems as well.

So while Hypertension is one of the most undetected diseases that affects millions every year, it is still treatable and manageable but it should be treated as early as possible to prevent damage to your heart, kidneys and brain. Remember, a change in your lifestyle and developing better eating habits can put you in control of your disease, and help you to live a longer healthier life. Start today and take control of your High Blood Pressure.