When to See a Doctor and How to Lower It Naturally
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common
condition that affects the body's arteries. It occurs when the force of the
blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high. The heart has
to work harder to pump blood, and this can lead to serious health problems over
time[1]. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition that can
have serious consequences for your health. It can increase your risk of heart
attack, stroke, kidney damage, vision loss and other complications. Therefore,
it is important to know the symptoms of high blood pressure and when to
see a doctor for treatment. High blood pressure is often called a "silent
killer" because the symptoms of high blood pressure are usually no
symptoms at all, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels.
You can have high blood pressure for years without knowing it due to absence of
symptoms of high blood pressure. That's why it is important to check your blood
pressure regularly and follow your doctor's advice on how to manage it. In this
article, we will discuss:
Ø The
symptoms of high blood pressure and when to seek medical help.
Ø The causes and risk factors of high blood
pressure.
Ø The
diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure.
Ø The
lifestyle changes and natural remedies that can help lower blood pressure.
 |
| Digital blood pressure monitor to check blood pressure |
I.
Symptoms of high blood pressure:
§ Severe
headache
§ Shortness
of breath
§ Nosebleed
§ Severe
anxiety
§ Feeling
of pulsations in the neck or head
These symptoms are not specific to high blood pressure and may
be caused by other conditions. They usually do not occur until high blood
pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek
immediate medical attention. Blood pressure higher than 180/120 mm Hg is
considered a hypertensive emergency or crisis and requires emergency care.
Even if you have no symptoms, you should see your doctor
regularly for blood pressure screening. How often you need to get your blood
pressure checked depends on your age and overall health. Your doctor may
recommend more frequent readings if you have high blood pressure or other risk
factors for heart disease, such as diabetes, kidney disease, smoking, obesity,
family history, or stress.
The American Heart Association recommends that adults should
have their blood pressure checked at least every two years starting at age 18.
If you are age 40 or older, or you are 18 to 39 with a high risk of high blood
pressure, you should have your blood pressure checked every year[2].
 |
| Sphygmomanometer to measure your blood pressure in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). |
Your doctor will use a device called a sphygmomanometer to measure your blood pressure in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Your blood pressure reading consists of two numbers: the systolic pressure (the top number) and the diastolic pressure (the bottom number). The systolic pressure measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, while the diastolic pressure measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
According to the American College of Cardiology and the
American Heart Association, blood pressure is categorized into four general
categories[2]:
§ Normal: Blood
pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg.
§ Elevated: Systolic pressure is between 120
and 129 mm Hg and diastolic pressure is less than 80 mm Hg.
§ Stage 1
hypertension: Systolic pressure is between 130 and 139 mm Hg
or diastolic pressure is between 80 and 89 mm Hg.
§ Stage 2 hypertension: Systolic
pressure is 140 mm Hg or higher or diastolic pressure is 90 mm Hg or higher.
Blood pressure higher than 180/120 mm Hg is considered a
hypertensive crisis and requires immediate medical attention. If you have these
numbers and also have symptoms such as headache, shortness of breath, chest
pain or vision problems, call local emergency number of your region.
II. Causes and risk factors of high blood pressure:
1. Primary Hypertension
(essential hypertension):
Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is the most common type of hypertension which develops gradually over many years. Despite years of research on hypertension, a specific cause isn’t known. It’s thought to be a combination of genetics, diet, lifestyle, and age[3].
Some of the factors that can increase the
risk of primary hypertension are:
· Age: Blood
pressure tends to rise with age as the arteries become stiffer and narrower[1]
· Race: High
blood pressure is more common among African Americans than among other races[1].
· Family
history: High blood pressure tends to run in families[1].
· Salt
intake: Eating too much salt can cause fluid retention and increase
blood pressure.
· Smoking: Smoking
damages the lining of the arteries and increases the risk of plaque build-up.
· Alcohol
consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood
pressure and damage the heart.
· Obesity: Being
overweight or obese puts extra strain on the heart and arteries.
· Physical
inactivity: Lack of exercise can lead to weight gain and poor
cardiovascular health.
· Stress: Chronic stress can trigger hormonal changes that can raise blood pressure.
2. Secondary Hypertension:
Secondary hypertension is when there’s an identifiable and potentially reversible cause of your hypertension. Only about 5 to 10 percent of hypertension is the secondary type. It’s more prevalent in younger people. The underlying causes of secondary hypertension include narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to your kidneys, adrenal gland disease, side effects of some medications, obstructive sleep apnea, hormone abnormalities[3].It is less common than primary hypertension. It occurs when high blood pressure is caused by an underlying medical condition or certain medications.
Some of the conditions that can cause secondary hypertension
are:
- Kidney disease: Kidney problems can
affect the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body and increase blood
pressure[4].
- Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a disorder that
causes breathing pauses during sleep. This can lower oxygen levels in the blood
and increase blood pressure[5].
- Thyroid or adrenal gland problems: Thyroid
or adrenal gland disorders can affect the production of hormones that regulate
blood pressure[5]. For example, pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal
gland that overproduces epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are hormones that
raise blood pressure.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can damage the kidneys
and nerves that control blood pressure[4].
- Pregnancy: Some women develop high blood
pressure during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume[5].
According to Mayo Clinic (2020),some of the medications that
can cause secondary hypertension are as listed below:
§ Birth
control pills: Oral contraceptives can increase estrogen levels and raise blood
pressure[4].
§ Nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen can
reduce kidney function and increase sodium retention[4].
§ Decongestants:
Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine can narrow blood
vessels and raise blood pressure[4].
§ Steroids:
Steroids such as prednisone and cortisone can increase fluid retention and
raise blood pressure[4].
§ Antidepressants:
Antidepressants such as venlafaxine and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
can increase norepinephrine levels and raise blood pressure[4].
III. Diagnosis and treatment of high blood
pressure:
Diagnosis:
Blood pressure is measured using an instrument called a
sphygmomanometer. It consists of a cuff that wraps around your arm and a gauge
that displays your blood pressure readings. Blood pressure readings are
expressed in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and consist of two numbers:
· Systolic
pressure: The top number represents the pressure in your arteries when your
heart beats.
· Diastolic
pressure: The bottom number represents the pressure in your arteries when your
heart rests between beats.
The diagnosis of high blood pressure is based on the average
of two or more readings taken at different times. A normal blood pressure
reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg, where 120 is the systolic pressure (the
pressure when the heart beats) and 80 is the diastolic pressure (the pressure
when the heart rests). A reading of 120-129/80 or lower is considered elevated
blood pressure, and a blood pressure reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher is
generally a considered hypertension[6].
To diagnose high blood pressure, a healthcare provider will
examine you and ask questions about your medical history and any symptoms. Your
provider will listen to your heart using a device called a stethoscope and
check your blood pressure using a cuff, usually placed around your arm[6].
Guidelines:
- Be
still: Don’t smoke, drink caffeinated beverages or exercise within 30
minutes before measuring your blood pressure.
- Empty
your bladder and ensure at least 5 minutes of quiet rest before
measurements.
- Sit
correctly: Sit with your back straight and supported (on a dining chair,
rather than a sofa). Your feet should be flat on the floor and your legs
should not be crossed. Your arm should be supported on a flat surface
(such as a table) with the upper arm at heart level. Make sure the bottom
of the cuff is placed directly above the bend of the elbow.
- Measure
at the same time every day: It’s important to take the readings at the
same time each day, such as morning and evening.
- Take
multiple readings and record the results: Each time you measure, take two
or three readings one minute apart and record the results using a
printable tracker.
The American Academy of Family Physicians also recommends
using an appropriately fitting upper-arm cuff on a bare arm[8].
Treatment:
a). Stage 1 high blood pressure:
If you have elevated
blood pressure or stage 1 hypertension, you should see your doctor for a
diagnosis and a treatment plan. You may be able to lower your blood pressure by
following some healthy lifestyle changes such as:
§ Eating a
healthy diet that is low in salt, saturated fat, cholesterol and trans-fat, and
rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and low-fat dairy.
§ Getting
regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, swimming or doing aerobic
exercises for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.
§ Maintaining
a healthy weight or losing weight if you are overweight or obese.
§ Quitting
smoking or avoiding exposure to second-hand smoke.
§ Limiting
alcohol intake to no more than one drink a day for women and two drinks a day
for men.
§ Managing
stress by practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation,
yoga or tai chi.
b). Stage 2 high blood pressure:
In case of stage 2 hypertension or if lifestyle changes are
not enough to lower your blood pressure, you may need to take medication to
control it. There are different types of drugs that can lower blood pressure by
relaxing the blood vessels, reducing the amount of fluid in the body or
affecting the hormones that regulate blood pressure.
Some of the common classes of drugs are:
§ Diuretics: These
drugs help the kidneys remove excess water and salt from the body, which lowers
the blood volume and pressure. Examples of diuretics are
hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, and spironolactone[6].
§ Beta
blockers: These drugs slow down the heart rate and reduce the force of
contraction, which lowers the cardiac output and pressure. Examples
of beta blockers are metoprolol, atenolol, and bisoprolol[6].
§ ACE
inhibitors: These drugs block an enzyme that produces a
hormone called angiotensin II, which narrows the blood vessels and raises the pressure.
They can also protect the kidneys from damage caused by high blood pressure or
diabetes. Examples of ACE inhibitors are enalapril, lisinopril, perindopril,
and ramipril[6].
§ Angiotensin
II receptor blockers(ARBs): These drugs block the action of angiotensin
II on the blood vessels, which relaxes them and lowers the pressure. These
drugs work similarly to ACE inhibitors, but they block the action of
angiotensin II on the receptors of the blood vessels, rather than blocking its
production. Examples of ARBs are losartan, valsartan, and candesartan[6].
§ Calcium
channel blockers: These drugs prevent calcium from entering the
muscle cells of the blood vessels, which relaxes them and lowers the pressure.
Examples
of calcium channel blockers are amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil[6].
Your doctor will prescribe the best medication for you based
on your condition and response to treatment. You may need to take more than one
medication to achieve your target blood pressure. You should take your
medications as directed and monitor your blood pressure regularly. You should
also follow up with your doctor regularly and report any side effects or
changes in your condition.
IV. Ways to lower high blood pressure naturally:
Some lifestyle changes that can help lower your blood pressure
include:
§ Eating a healthy diet that is low in salt, saturated fat, cholesterol and trans-fat, and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and low-fat dairy products. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is an example of a diet that can help lower blood pressure. The DASH diet is a healthy eating plan that aims to lower blood pressure and prevent or treat hypertension. The diet is based on eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, low-fat dairy products and nuts, and less sodium, saturated fat and added sugars. The DASH diet can help lower blood pressure in as little as two weeks and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke[11,12].
§ Salt intake is high around the world, mostly due to processed and prepared foods. Many studies have linked high salt intake with high blood pressure and heart events. However, some people may be more sensitive to salt than others. If you have high blood pressure, it may be beneficial to cut back on salt and try seasoning with herbs and spices instead[10].
§ Reduce your sodium intake as too much salt can cause your body to retain fluid, which increases blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends limiting your sodium intake to between 1,500 and 2,300 milligrams per day[10].
§ Eat more potassium as it helps balance the effects of sodium on your blood pressure. Foods that are rich in potassium include bananas, potatoes, avocados, beans, and leafy greens[10].
§ Getting regular physical activity that includes aerobic exercise (such as walking, jogging, cycling or swimming) and strength training (such as lifting weights or doing push-ups). Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Physical activity can help lower your blood pressure by strengthening your heart and improving blood circulation[13].
§ According
to Mayo Clinic, regular physical activity can lower high blood pressure by
about 5 to 8 mm Hg. Exercise can also help prevent elevated blood pressure from
turning into hypertension. As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of
moderate physical activity every day[9].
§ Maintaining
a healthy weight that is appropriate for your height and body type. Losing
excess weight can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of other
health problems.
§ Limiting
alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per
day for men. Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and damage
your liver and heart. Drinking
alcohol can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of several chronic
health conditions like heart disease and stroke. While some research has
suggested that low to moderate amounts of alcohol may protect the heart, those
benefits may be offset by adverse effects. In the United States, moderate
alcohol consumption is defined as no more than one drink per day for females
and two drinks per day for males. If you drink more than that, it might be best
to consider reducing your intake[10].
§ Quitting
smoking or avoiding exposure to second-hand smoke. Smoking can damage your
blood vessels and increase your blood pressure and risk of heart disease and
stroke.
§ Consume
dark chocolate as it contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that can lower
blood pressure and improve blood vessel function. Choose dark chocolate that
has at least 70% cocoa content and consume it in moderation[10].
§ Enjoy
some berries because they are another source of antioxidants that can benefit
your blood pressure. They contain anthocyanins, which are compounds that give
berries their colour and have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory effects[14].
§ Take some
supplements as they may help reduce high blood pressure, such as fish oil,
hibiscus, garlic, berberine, and magnesium. However, before taking any
supplements, consult with your doctor about their safety and dosage[14].
§ Managing
stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation,
yoga or tai chi. Stress can trigger or worsen high blood pressure by causing
your body to release hormones that constrict your blood vessels and increase
your heart rate.
§ Taking
prescribed medications as directed by your doctor. Some people may need
medication to lower their blood pressure in addition to lifestyle changes.
There are different types of medications that work in different ways to lower
blood pressure. Your doctor will prescribe the best medication for you based on
your condition and medical history.
Conclusion:
High blood pressure is a serious condition that can affect
your quality of life and increase your risk of life-threatening complications.
However, with proper diagnosis, treatment and lifestyle changes, you can lower
your blood pressure and protect your health. Remember to check your blood
pressure regularly and see your doctor if you have any concerns or questions
about your condition.
FAQ:
Q1.How do you feel if your blood pressure is high?
Ans. High blood pressure, or hypertension, can cause serious health problems, such as heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss. Some of the symptoms of high blood pressure are headache, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and nosebleeds. However, some people may not have any symptoms at all. That is why it is important to check your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor's advice on how to lower it if it is too high.
Q2. What are 5 symptoms of hypertension?
Ans. Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition
that can damage your blood vessels and organs. Some common symptoms of
hypertension are:
· Headache
· Dizziness
· Chest
pain
· Shortness
of breath
· Blurred vision
Q3. How can I control BP?
Ans. You can lower BP without medication by:
· Losing
weight and having a healthy waist size: weight can raise BP and make it hard to
lower.
· Exercising
regularly: exercise improves blood flow and heart strength, which lowers BP.
· Eating
less salt: salt makes the body keep water and raise BP. Have less than 6 grams
of salt a day.
· Eating
healthy foods: fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, low-fat dairy, fish, poultry, and nuts lower BP. Avoid foods high in
saturated fat, cholesterol, trans fat, sugar, and caffeine.
· Drinking
less alcohol: alcohol raises BP and
affects medication. Men should have two drinks a day or less, and women one or
less.
· Managing
stress: stress causes BP spikes and
hurts health. Cope with stress in healthy ways, such as meditation, yoga,
breathing exercises, or hobbies.
· Checking
BP often: Monitor BP at home to track
progress and notice changes. Use a sphygmomanometer to measure BP.
If lifestyle changes don't control BP, you may need medication. Your doctor can suggest the best medication for you based on your condition and factors. Common medications for high BP are diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, alpha blockers, and renin inhibitors.
Q4.What causes high BP?
Ans. Some common causes of high BP are:
· Smoking
· Being
overweight or obese
· Lack of
physical activity
· Too much
salt in the diet
· Too much
alcohol consumption
· Stress
· Older age
· Genetics
· Family
history of high BP
· Chronic
kidney disease
· Adrenal
and thyroid disorders
References:
[1] High blood pressure (hypertension) - Symptoms and causes -
Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373410
[2] What are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure? | American
Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/why-high-blood-pressure-is-a-silent-killer/what-are-the-symptoms-of-high-blood-pressure
[3] Types of Hypertension: Primary, Secondary, Causes, and
More - Healthline. Accessed at-https://www.healthline.com/health/types-and-stages-of-hypertension
Accessed 18/05/2023.
[4] Mayo Clinic. (2020, December 18). Secondary hypertension. Accessed
at-https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/secondary-hypertension/symptoms-causes/syc-20350679
[5] Cleveland Clinic. (2020, December 15). Secondary
hypertension. Accessed at-https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21128-secondary-hypertension
[6] Mayo Clinic. (2021). High blood pressure (hypertension) -
Diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373417
[7] American Heart Association. (n.d.). Monitoring Your Blood
Pressure at Home. Retrieved from-
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-readings/monitoring-your-blood-pressure-at-home
[8] AAFP. (2021). Home Blood Pressure Monitoring. Retrieved
from-https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2021/0900/p237.html
[9] Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). 10 ways to control high blood
pressure without medication. Retrieved from-https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20046974
[10] Medical News Today. (2018). 15 natural ways to lower your
blood pressure. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318716
[11] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021). DASH diet: Healthy eating to
lower your blood pressure. Retrieved from
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/dash-diet/art-20048456
[12] West, H. (2018). The complete beginner’s guide to the
DASH diet. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dash-diet
[13] Healthline. (2021, October 19). 17 effective ways to
lower your blood pressure. Accessed at-https://www.healthline.com/health/high-blood-pressure-home-remedies
[14] Healthgrades Editorial Staff. (2020, August 26). Natural
remedies for high blood pressure. Accessed at-https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/high-blood-pressure/natural-remedies-for-high-blood-pressure