15 Basic facts about blood pressure - Measures and prevention : Your online pharmacy selection

What is blood pressure and why is it important?

Blood pressure is a measure of the force exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries. It is crucial to our health, as it enables blood to circulate throughout the body, supplying oxygen and essential nutrients to our organs. Two values are used to measure blood pressure: systolic pressure (the higher number) indicates the pressure when the heart contracts, and diastolic pressure (the lower number) represents the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.

How to measure blood pressure correctly

To obtain an accurate blood pressure reading, we recommend you follow these steps:

1. Rest for at least 5 minutes in a quiet environment before taking your measurement.
2. Make sure your arm is level with your heart and that the cuff is properly adjusted.
3. Avoid caffeine and smoking for 30 minutes before measurement.
4. Use a validated device and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

What are normal blood pressure values?

Normal blood pressure values are generally below 120/80 mmHg. A systolic pressure between 120 and 129 mmHg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mmHg are considered high, but still within the normal range. Values consistently above 130/80 mmHg may indicate hypertension, requiring medical attention.

What are the risk factors for hypertension?

The main risk factors include

• Age: the risk increases with age.
• Heredity: a family history of hypertension.
• Being overweight orobese.
• A diet high in salt and low in fruit and vegetables.
• A sedentary lifestyle.
• Excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption.

How can hypertension be managed and controlled?

Managing hypertension often involves several approaches:

• Adopting a balanced diet: focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low in saturated fats.
• Regular exercise: at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.
• Maintain a healthy weight: lose weight if you are overweight.
• Limit alcohol consumption and stop smoking.
• Stress management: relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.

Can hypertension be prevented?

Yes, several preventive measures can be taken:

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure.
• Adopting a healthy lifestyle from an early age.
• Regular medical consultations for personalized advice based on your health history.

What complications can result from untreated hypertension?

Untreated hypertension can lead to a number of serious complications, affecting various organs and systems. Among the most common are:

• Heart disease: including heart failure, myocardial infarction, and left ventricular hypertrophy.
• Stroke: hypertension can cause damage to blood vessels in the brain, leading to stroke.
• Kidney failure: hypertension can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, affecting their function.
• Vision problems: high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the retina.

How does stress affect blood pressure?

Stress can have a direct impact on blood pressure. In stressful situations, the body produces hormones such as adrenalin and cortisol, which temporarily increase blood pressure by accelerating the heart rate and reducing the diameter of blood vessels. Managing stress through relaxation and breathing techniques can help control blood pressure fluctuations.

Can natural remedies be used to control hypertension?

Some natural remedies can help managehypertension, although they should be used as a complement to treatments prescribed by a physician and not as a substitute. Among the most popular are :

• Potassium: helps balance the amount of sodium in the body, which can reduce blood pressure.
• Garlic: may have a modest beneficial effect on reducing blood pressure.
• Coenzyme Q10: this antioxidant may help lower blood pressure slightly. It is important to consult a health professional before starting any natural treatment.

What is the DASH diet and how can it help hypertension sufferers?

The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is specifically designed to reduce blood pressure. The diet promotes a high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products, while limiting salt, saturated fats and added sugars. Studies show that the DASH diet can significantly reduce blood pressure in just a few weeks.

What role does exercise play in managing hypertension?

Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways of preventing and managing hypertension. Physical activity helps strengthen the heart, enabling it to pump more efficiently with less effort, thereby lowering pressure in the arteries. General recommendations suggest at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking or cycling, every week.