Non-drug hypertension guidelines

Non-drug hypertension guidelines: High blood pressure is a major contributor to the burden of cardiovascular disease worldwide. It is estimated that more than 1.39 billion people are affected by hypertension, while the number of premature deaths due to hypertension is more than 10.4 million. If treated timely with professional care of Vascular Surgeon, the outcome is significantly improved with reduced incidence of complications.

High blood pressure is there before you even start thinking about it

Blood pressure is not just a number. Blood vessels are like the pipes in a house; High blood pressure damages not just one organ but all the organs supplied by the blood vessels. This is why people should take steps to prevent hypertension as there is always an age-related rise in blood pressure. Caution is more important for people with a family history of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure during pregnancy and family history of kidney disease.

Primary prevention can prevent end-organ damage and greatly reduce the chance of other complications. According to researchers, the most important predictor of high blood pressure is: body weight. Therefore, losing weight, even ten to fifteen pounds, can significantly lower blood pressure.

Small changes can make a big difference

Dietary changes are the first step in controlling high blood pressure. Non-pharmacological approaches to hypertension include: salt restriction, regular exercise and weight management. Sodium has a direct proportional relationship with hypertension; Even a teaspoon of salt can significantly increase blood pressure. Dietary salt restriction is therefore essential for both primary prevention and management of hypertension.

A crash diet for high blood pressure

Both the Mediterranean and DASH diets focus on lowering blood pressure. This diet restricts the intake of salt and processed foods, with a greater emphasis on the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. This balance of nutrients is ideal for keeping blood pressure in the optimal range.

Quit smoking

Cigarette smoke causes blood vessels to constrict, causing further damage to the endothelium inside them. This puts a person at risk not only for high blood pressure but also for myocardial infarction or heart attack due to increased clotting towards the heart. That’s why quitting smoking is imperative for anyone who wants to lower their blood pressure and reduce their risk of heart disease.

New study analysis of more than three decades of data shows that smokers raise pulse pressure and increase their risk of heart disease. The study, called Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults, or CARDIA, showed that the difference between systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure increased in smokers compared to nonsmokers. A Cardia study shows a link between long-term smokers and high blood pressure. The results of this study suggest that clinicians need to pay more attention to increased pulse pressure in smokers, especially in young adults.

Relaxation techniques

The mechanism of action behind relaxation techniques and low blood pressure is unclear. It is believed that stress and the resulting vasoconstriction increase blood pressure.

Get treatment for obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea contributes to poorly controlled blood pressure. When the upper airway is obstructed during sleep, it causes intermittent hypoxemia—a decrease in blood oxygen levels and an increase in the sympathetic response. Obstructive sleep apnea is now recognized as a significant contributor to hypertension due to its effects on blood vessels.

Limit alcohol consumption

Another important modulating factor for lowering blood pressure is limiting alcohol intake. Meta-analyses and research data show a dose-response relationship between reductions in blood pressure and reductions in alcohol consumption. For more information about risk factors for hypertension and non-pharmacological interventions, professional help from a vascular surgeon should be sought.