High Blood Pressure; A Dangerous Silent Killer

Blood pressure is the amount of pressure and force applied to the arterial wall that results from pumping of the heart. Long-term hypertension, if left untreated, can lead to a variety of dangerous diseases, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disorders, and so on.

According to the World Health Organisation, 1.3 billion people worldwide are suffering from hypertension.

According to some reports, the disease is the leading cause of death in the world. There are several factors that contribute to this disease. Heredity, obesity, smoking, drinking alcohol, high salt intake, diabetes, stress, etc. are among the causes of high blood pressure.

Ways to Control Blood Pressure

Today’s poor lifestyle such as inactivity and inappropriate nutrition has caused many diseases, including hypertension. Changing some of the wrong habits can prevent or control the disease. According to studies, proper exercise can reduce blood pressure by 4 to 9 mm Hg. In some people, this amount of activity and lower blood pressure makes it unnecessary to take any medication. Blood pressure is also higher in areas where salt intake is higher. Therefore, salt control is another necessary step. To go on diet and weight loss, next to abstaining from smoking and drinking alcohol along with treatment or stress relief are other important elements in preventing and controlling the disease.

Blood pressure medications are another option to control this disease. However, some blood pressure medications have side effects such as impotence.

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However, the most important cause of hypertension that needs special attention is atherosclerosis. The disease is usually caused by the deposition of certain substances such as cholesterol and calcium on the vessel wall or by hardening the vessels. In addition to the above ways, some herbs and foods have an effective role in controlling blood pressure. Some natural supplements have also been produced using the ingredients of these herbs without the side effects of chemical drugs. Garlic products, for example, are effective preventers of atherosclerosis and hypertension. Consumption of hawthorn also reduces blood pressure by dilating the coronary arteries. Diabetes can worsen the hypertension through hardening of the arteries and atherosclerosis. Diabetic diet is one of the most effective preventive measures as well.