High blood pressure can have a negative impact on your health.
Even if you don't notice any signs of high blood pressure, it can lead to a variety of dangerous conditions. According to the Mayo Clinic, high blood pressure "may cause silent damage to the body for years before symptoms appear Uncontrolled high blood pressure can result in disability, a reduced quality of life, or even a fatal heart attack or stroke." Untreated high blood pressure has also been related to an increased risk of dementia, aneurysm, heart disease, kidney damage, eyesight loss, sexual dysfunction, and other health problems.
Do this every day if you're 50-80 years old
According to a new study published in the journal JAMA Network Open, people between the ages of 50 and 80 are more likely to acquire hypertension and have a "greater risk of poor consequences from uncontrolled BP [blood pressure] than younger ones."
That's why some specialists recommend checking your blood pressure every day, even if you have no signs of the illness. "Home blood pressure monitoring is related with moderate blood pressure reductions and is cost-effective," according to the study.
Try these home monitoring tips.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that you measure your blood pressure at home on a regular basis. "It's vital to take the readings at the same time each day, such as in the morning and evening," the group advises, adding that you should always keep track of your results on a tracking sheet for future reference. The best precise measurement can be obtained by collecting two to three readings one minute apart during each BP monitoring session, according to the organization.
The AHA also emphasizes the need of avoiding any factors that may influence your blood pressure. They recommend emptying your bladder five minutes before taking your readings and refraining from smoking, drinking, or exercising for 30 minutes beforehand. Sit quietly and remove any clothing that might act as a barrier between you and your blood pressure monitor.
Advice on how to lower your blood pressure.
Aside from frequently checking your blood pressure and discussing that information with your doctor, it's also critical to take real steps to lower your blood pressure if it's excessive. You may be able to accomplish this by losing weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, stopping smoking, limiting your alcohol consumption, managing stress, sleeping well, and lowering your sodium intake.
To help lower your blood pressure, your doctor may potentially prescribe medicine or recommend that you utilize a breath training device. Consult your doctor for more information on lowering your risk of hypertension or treating an existing case.