Symptoms
High blood pressure, or
hypertension, is called the “silent killer”. In most cases, there are no
clear warning signs, even as the condition of damaging your health.
What to Do
Now
If you’re in a
high-risk group, have your blood pressure checked as often as doctor
recommends. The doctor could check your blood pressure; or you can buy a
blood pressure cuff and check it yourself, but it takes some practice.
When to Call
a Doctor
1. If you have or
suspect you have high blood pressure and you experience any of the
following: recurring headaches, numbness and tingling, confusion, or
blurred vision, chest pain or tightness, frequent nosebleeds.
2.
If you or someone else
checks your blood pressure repeatedly over several days and it is
consistently much higher than before.
3.
If you’re pregnant and
you develop high blood pressure. This can harm both you and your unborn
child.
4.
If you have high blood
pressure and you develop side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness,
constipation, or impotence. You may need a different drug. But never
discontinue your blood pressure medication without telling your doctor;
stopping abruptly can be dangerous.
How to
Prevent It
1. Exercise regularly,
try brisk walking, swimming, or biking. If you have been totally
sedentary, check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
2.
Make an effort to lose
pounds.
3.
If you drink alcohol,
give up. Eat no more than 2 grams of salt a day. (One teaspoon of salt
equals about 2 gram) Fresh vegetables and fruits are low in fat; fast food
and processed foods contain a lot of it.
4.
If you smoke, quit.
5.
Find a healthy outlet for stress. Try mediation or yoga to relax.
6.
If you use birth
control pills, consider a different contraceptive method. The Pill can
cause high blood pressure in some woman.
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