Have you been diagnosed with high blood pressure? According to the American Heart Association (AHA), over half of all individuals in the United States have high blood pressure (hypertension), with the majority (75%) of them not having it under control. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is crucial for everyone, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the American Heart Association, high blood pressure is still the top cause of heart attack and stroke, and it is a significant factor in poor outcomes for people who get COVID-19. Fortunately, high blood pressure is also the most important preventable risk factor for heart disease.
“One of the most essential things you can do to lessen your chance of dying from a heart attack or stroke is to lower your blood pressure,” says Willie Lawrence, M.D., chief of cardiology at Research Medical Center and volunteer expert for the American Heart Association.
Work with your healthcare professional to manage your risks if you have high blood pressure. Here are a few minor adjustments that can make a major difference: – You should be aware of your numbers. Regularly check your blood pressure with a validated monitor; a reading of 120/80 mm Hg (sometimes known as “120 over 80”) or less is considered normal, while a reading of 130/80 is deemed high and raises your risk of heart attack or stroke.
Blood pressure readings are given in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and include the systolic and diastolic numbers. – Take your medications as prescribed. If your doctor provides medicine to help you manage your high blood pressure, follow the directions carefully, but contact your doctor if you have any questions. Also, tell your doctor if you’re taking any over-the-counter medications, as these can occasionally interfere with the effectiveness of prescription medications.
According to the American Heart Association, some over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, might raise blood pressure. For pain relief, try acetaminophen or consult your doctor about alternative options. – Live a healthy lifestyle.
Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and low in saturated fat can all help to keep blood pressure in check. Additionally, limit sodium intake to less than 1,500 mg per day.
Limit your alcohol intake to 1-2 drinks each day (in general, one for women, two for men). Don’t start drinking if you don’t already. There will be no smoking.- Get your feet moving. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure and overall health requires at least 150 minutes of physical exercise per week, with a mix of moderate and strenuous aerobic activity.