What is a Dangerous Level of Blood Pressure?
Each person experiences some variation in blood pressure during the day and as they age. Care for high blood pressure generally occurs when readings are higher than 130/80. A hypertensive crisis is significantly elevated blood pressure and starts at 180/120. It is considered an emergency.
What Are Early Warning Signs of High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure generally does not have any symptoms in the very early stages. For this reason, it is important to get regular screenings to check for blood pressure abnormalities. The first sign most people report is the hypertension headache, a headache caused by high blood pressure that usually presents with pain in the back or sides of the head.
Other symptoms associated with high blood pressure include back pain, difficulty speaking, nosebleeds, body numbness or weakness, shortness of breath, or changes in vision. These symptoms generally arise only in serious, prolonged cases.
What Can I Do to Lower My Blood Pressure Immediately?
Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing can cause a decrease in blood pressure within minutes. However, a long-term treatment plan is necessary for most people to reduce their blood pressure and maintain it at a lower level. Diet and exercise are essential. Most patients will require medication, at least temporarily, while pursuing changes.
What Should Be Avoided with High Blood Pressure?
Stress and anxiety are major contributors to high blood pressure. You should also avoid a diet high in salt, fat, and cholesterol. All of these are capable of causing damage to the circulatory system that can make blood pressure worse.
Does Drinking Lots of Water Lower Blood Pressure?
Staying well-hydrated helps to moderate your blood pressure levels by ensuring the body does not need to release excess sodium to manage its fluid supply. However, drinking more water than your body needs will not help with blood pressure and can cause other issues.
What Exercises Are Best for Lowering Blood Pressure?
A long-term plan of moderate cardiovascular exercise will generally produce the best results for people with high blood pressure. Cardiovascular exercise strengthens the heart and is also essential in burning fat.
What is the Best Diet Plan for High Blood Pressure?
There are many different diet plans that may prove helpful to you in managing blood pressure. Be cautious of fad diets and talk to your doctor for personalized advice. Any balanced diet high in vegetables and fruits has the potential to lower blood pressure. Higher fiber intake can also be of value.
Can Blood Pressure Be Cured Permanently?
Due to genetic factors and other factors, not all people will be able to reduce their blood pressure permanently without the help of medication. During long-term treatment, your doctor will help you determine the best approach for you.
When Should You Go to the Emergency Room for High Blood Pressure?
A hypertensive crisis is a period of high blood pressure where readings are 180/120 or higher. This is a medical emergency since blood pressure this high can damage blood vessels, leading to a stroke. If you experience a sudden, intense onset of symptoms listed above, seek immediate care.
To find out how you can lower high blood pressure, make an appointment with Boulevard Medical Healthcare today. Our doctors are highly experienced in lowering blood pressure.
Cam Brunson is a lifelong Bronx resident who knows the area well. He has worked in the medical industry for many years, and he is passionate about helping people find quality medical care in the Bronx. Cam is dedicated to his community, and he wants everyone to have access to the best possible medical care.