How To Treat High Or Low Blood Pressure

Written by Chicagohealers.com practitionerTeresa Zeigler, L.Ac–

High blood pressure or hypertension also known as the silent killer is a major problem in America’s fast-paced, high stress world. Blood pressure is the force of the flowing blood against the walls of the arteries. It is measured in two numbers. The first number is systolic pressure which represents the pressure generated when the heart contracts and pumps the blood through the artery. The lower number is diastolic pressure, which represents the pressure in the vessels when the heart is at rest. If your systolic pressure is equal or greater than 140 mmhg, and/or your diastolic pressure is equal or greater than 90 mmhg on three separate occasions while seated, a definite diagnosis can be made.

Causes of High Blood Pressure – Although behavior patterns and stress play an important part, hypertension is most closely related to dietary factors. Other key elements are:

Excessive weight or obesity

Lifestyle factors such as coffee consumption, alcohol intake, excessive salt use, and lack of aerobic exercise.

Cigarette smoking is a contributing factor in hypertension. Smoking is also positively associated with increased sugar, alcohol and caffeine consumption. Nicotine stimulates the adrenaline secretion.

If you experience any of the following sign/symptoms you should see your physician to have your blood pressure monitored: headache, fatigue, confusion, nausea/vomiting, excessive perspiration, muscle tremors, chest pain, ear ringing/buzzing How Can You Prevent High Blood Pressure?

Everyone–regardless of race, age, sex, or heredity–can help lower their chance of developing high blood pressure. Here’s how:

1) Maintain a healthy weight, lose weight if you are overweight,
2) Be more physically active,
3) Consume lower salt and sodium foods, reduce consumption of red meat, eat more fruits and vegetables
4) If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation. Quit smoking it increases your risk of heart attack and stroke.

These rules are also recommended for treating high blood pressure, although medicine is often added as part of the treatment. It is far better to keep your blood pressure from getting high in the first place.

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