Hypertension, often referred to as the silent killer, poses a significant risk factor for stroke, heart attack, and heart failure. While exercise, medication, and reducing salt intake play crucial roles in maintaining healthy blood pressure, it's essential to be aware of personal habits that can unknowingly increase the risk.
Did you know that certain behaviors and environmental factors can raise your risk of developing hypertension, or high blood pressure? In order to assist you in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we at Blakey Hall Assisted Living believe in giving you enlightening and welcoming advice. Here are some ideas to think about:
Social Connections
Humans thrive on social connections, which are social interactions. According to studies at the University of British Columbia, social isolation can increase cortisol levels, which can raise blood pressure. Being single or participating in a few social activities is associated with higher average blood pressure in women. It's interesting to note that men with smaller social networks or who live alone may have lower blood pressure. Although the precise causes are unknown, it is crucial to value social connections in order to advance general well-being.
The Urge To Go
Did you know that a full bladder will momentarily cause your blood pressure to rise? It's best to empty your bladder before having your blood pressure taken. Although it's understandable to hold it in some circumstances, try not to put off using the restroom unnecessarily. Hypertension can also be indicated by frequent urination and frequent nighttime awakenings, which show that the body needs to lower blood pressure.
Thyroid Function
High blood pressure can result from both overactive and underactive thyroid conditions. If there is a family history of thyroid disease, it is advised to have your thyroid levels checked more frequently—either once a year or more frequently. It is essential to take prescribed thyroid medication consistently because skipping or forgetting doses can cause blood pressure to rise.
Fruits And Vegetables
Eating a balanced diet is crucial for controlling blood pressure. Consuming potassium-rich fruits and vegetables can help lower blood pressure, while sodium intake should be kept to a minimum. Men should aim for 3,400 mg of potassium daily, while women should get 2,600 mg. Excellent sources of potassium include potatoes, dried fruit, bananas, beans, and dried fruit. Fresh produce can be substituted for processed foods to lower sodium intake and raise potassium levels.
Moderate Alcohol Use
Although it might seem relaxing, drinking too much alcohol significantly raises the risk of high blood pressure. According to studies, even seven to thirteen drinks per week can cause stage one hypertension. It's best to stay within the one or two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women recommendations.
Medication Awareness of High Blood Pressure
Some drugs can raise blood pressure or cause hypertension. Always give your medical professionals a complete list of all your medications. Blood pressure can be raised by drugs like naproxen (Aleve), ibuprofen (Motrin), and decongestants with pseudoephedrine. Furthermore, some immunosuppressants and antidepressants may have similar outcomes.
Consistent Sleep
Not getting enough sleep can raise blood pressure. Numerous studies have demonstrated that sleep deprivation can increase blood pressure the following day as well as during the night. A regular sleep schedule, abstaining from food and liquids right before bed, and keeping electronics out of the bedroom can all help with quality sleep. Consult your doctor to determine whether sleep apnea may be present if you wake up frequently exhausted, snoring, or gasping for air.
Treating Chronic Pain
High blood pressure can be caused by chronic pain. Using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) exclusively for a prolonged period can raise your risk even more. It's critical to seek medical care for chronic pain and not put off required procedures or treatments. Managing and lowering high blood pressure can be accomplished by addressing the underlying cause of the pain.
Here at Blakey Hall Assisted Living, we put a high priority on your health. We partner with our residents, their healthcare providers, and loved ones to maintain healthy blood pressure levels by staying informed and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
For general well-being, it's essential to maintain healthy blood pressure, and at Blakey Hall Assisted Living, we're dedicated to offering the appropriate support. We help by encouraging you to take proactive steps toward better cardiovascular health by being aware of the various factors that can affect blood pressure, such as social interactions, bladder fullness, thyroid health, dietary decisions, alcohol consumption, medication awareness, sleep patterns, and pain management. Remember that small lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on managing hypertension and lowering the risk of associated complications. Put your health first, get medical help when necessary, and make decisions that lead to a balanced and satisfying life.