Show
These techniques can provide a quick fix, but it’s important to implement a long-term care plan to successfully manage your high blood pressure. Some of the most effective ways to lower blood pressure include:
What Are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?Perhaps you’re not sure if you have high blood pressure. If it has been a while since you’ve had your blood pressure taken, consider scheduling a wellness visit with your medical provider. In the meantime, here are some of the key signs of high blood pressure to watch out for:
When to Call 911High blood pressure may warrant emergency care. If your blood pressure is 180/120 or greater, or if you experience any of the following symptoms, call 911 immediately:
Your Partner in Heart HealthTufts Medical Center Community Care is here to help you achieve your best heart health. Our multispecialty medical group features a growing team of internists, family medicine physicians and cardiologists who collaborate to provide comprehensive care to patients with high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. To schedule an appointment with a cardiologist or primary care physician at Tufts Medical Center Community Care, contact our friendly professionals today or reserve an appointment online. Telemedicine services are also available—give us a call to learn if this type of appointment is right for you. High blood pressure (HBP) is a fairly common health issue in the US, with 75 million adults currently diagnosed with this condition. HBP occurs when blood regularly flows through the veins at a high rate of pressure. This condition is also referred to as hypertension. High blood pressure is sometimes called ‘the silent killer’ because it often has no symptoms. Even though this condition is asymptomatic, it is still important for you to get checked regularly, as HBP can lead to a number of other potentially serious health problems. Medication is almost always an option to lower your blood pressure. However, there are also many ways to lower your BP without the help of a prescription medication. How To Lower Blood Pressure Without MedicationIt’s normal for your BP to fluctuate throughout the day. Excitement, being active, sleeping and waking up are all situations where blood pressure changes naturally. When your activity ends, your BP reading should return to a normal range. A normal blood pressure is usually defined as systolic pressure below 120 mmHg and diastolic pressure below 80mmHg. Systolic pressure is the measurement of blood pressure from your heart beats. Diastolic pressure is when the heart is at rest between beats. Unfortunately there is no cure for high blood pressure currently, but you can take steps to manage it even without medication. Here are 7 ways to lower your blood pressure naturally:
Risk FactorsBlood pressure typically increases with age. It’s estimated that over 70% of US Seniors have high blood pressure. The American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines for blood pressure by age recommends men and women, age 65 or older, aim for a blood pressure lower than 130/80 mm Hg. Some people are more prone to developing high BP than others for other reasons too. Certain lifestyle choices can also increase your risk of developing HBP. Lowering your blood pressure is especially helpful if you have one or more risk factors for HBP. People most at risk for developing HBP are:
Some factors, such as gender, ethnicity, and family history cannot be controlled. That’s why changing the factors you can control is important! Why Lowering Your BP MattersOver time, high blood pressure can lead to an array of health complications. HBP does not have symptoms, so it’s especially important to visit your primary physician on a regular basis. They will be able to determine if your blood pressure is abnormal and prescribe a treatment plan for you. HPB can lead to:
When to Seek Emergency CareHigh blood pressure causes damage to your organs over time. However, it’s possible for BP to rise suddenly and cause what is called a hypertensive crisis. Hypertensive crises can manifest as either hypertensive urgency or hypertensive emergency. When checking your blood pressure, measurements over 180 for systolic and 120 for diastolic are warning flags. Wait a few minutes before you check again. If readings still exceed 180/120, then this is indicative of a hypertensive emergency. If left unchecked, a hypertensive emergency may have severe consequences. Possible outcomes of uncontrollable high blood pressure include:
Seek medical attention immediately if your readings exceed 180/120. This amount of pressure can be damaging to organs and cause potentially serious conditions. If you are seeking help for controlling your high blood pressure, please visit our Primary Care Doctors library and schedule an appointment to discuss your options. How long does it take to lower diastolic BP?Many people can reduce their high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, in as little as 3 days to 3 weeks.
Should I worry if my diastolic is high?Answer: If you don't have other health issues that increase your risk of cardiovascular problems, the situation you describe — isolated diastolic hypertension — isn't dangerous now. But it's not normal, either. People with elevated diastolic blood pressure often develop elevated systolic blood pressure over time.
How can I lower my diastolic blood pressure right now?Dietary changes. Limit alcohol consumption. Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure to an unhealthy level. ... . Limit caffeine consumption. ... . Reduce sodium intake. ... . Increase potassium intake. ... . Limit saturated and trans fats. ... . Avoid sugar. ... . Eat heart-healthy foods. ... . Add probiotics.. Why is my diastolic so high?Smoking, consuming alcohol, obesity, and high blood fat may lead to IDH. Additionally, certain groups of people have an increased risk of IDH, including younger males and people with diabetes or previous cardiovascular events.
|