*Nearly half of all adults in the United States are living with high blood pressure — and a significant number have no idea. Hypertension has earned its reputation as a “silent killer” — a condition that can steadily damage the heart, brain, and blood vessels without a single warning sign. Data now points to a troubling rise in cardiovascular deaths linked to high blood pressure among adults in their 30s, 40s, and 50s.
“Hypertension matters so much because it’s the most modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke and now, the evidence suggests, this may be true for cognitive decline,” said Dr. Eduardo Sanchez, chief medical officer for prevention at the American Heart Association, per the Seattle Times. He noted that lifestyle changes and medication can change “the trajectory very, very dramatically” for those at risk.
Getting a handle on your numbers is a critical first step. Blood pressure readings consist of two values — the systolic number reflecting heart contractions and the diastolic number capturing the pressure between beats. A reading under 120/80 mm Hg falls within the normal range, and yearly checkups are strongly encouraged. “The typical setting in a busy primary care clinic — where somebody’s sitting on an exam table with their legs dangling, and their arm not supported, while somebody’s talking to them — is not the right way,” said Dr. Jennifer Cluett of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
As the body ages, blood vessels lose elasticity, which contributes to rising pressure over time. Black people and men face disproportionately higher rates of hypertension, and pregnancy can also trigger the condition in some women. Risk factors also include genetics, smoking, poor sleep, and excess weight.
Scroll to continue reading
Diet plays a major role in managing blood pressure. The DASH diet, which emphasizes potassium-rich foods and limits sodium intake, ranked as the most effective lifestyle intervention across an analysis of more than 100 studies. Aerobic exercise came in second, followed by isometric resistance training such as planks and wall squats.
When lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, medication is a proven option, with several effective generic drugs available. Doctors can also prescribe single-pill combinations to simplify treatment. “Lifestyle changes help more than just your blood pressure number,” Cluett said.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: 8 Nutrient-Packed Foods Dietitians Recommend to Lower High Blood Pressure
Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
