Hypertension, as a prevalent chronic disease, requires long-term and strict management by patients.
However, in the process of treating hypertension, many patients will fall into some common misconceptions about taking medications, which not only affect the treatment effect, but also may aggravate the condition. The key to stabilizing blood pressure is to do the following 4 things.
6 common misconceptions about high blood pressure
How many did you step on?
Myth 1: High blood pressure is a disease of old age
Although high blood pressure is more common in older people, it doesn't mean that younger people won't develop it. Unhealthy lifestyles such as a high-salt diet, lack of exercise, obesity, etc., can lead to high blood pressure in young people.
Myth 2: If you don't have symptoms, you don't need treatment
High blood pressure is known as the "silent killer", and many patients may have no obvious symptoms in the early stages. But that doesn't mean you can ignore that high blood pressure can silently damage blood vessels and organs.
Myth 3: If your blood pressure is normal, you can stop taking the drug
Even if the blood pressure is temporarily normal, it does not mean that the drug can be stopped at will. High blood pressure requires long-term management, and stopping the drug abruptly may lead to a rebound in blood pressure.
Myth 4: Antihypertensive drugs are dependent
Antihypertensive drugs work to help control blood pressure, reduce the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, and do not lead to physical dependence. The correct way to do this is to adjust the dosage of the drug according to your blood pressure under the guidance of your doctor.
Myth 5: Relying only on drugs and ignoring lifestyle adjustments
Medication is an important part of treating high blood pressure, but a healthy lifestyle is just as important. Eating a balanced diet, exercising moderately, controlling weight, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can all help control blood pressure.
Myth 6: Once you start taking medication, you can never stop taking it
While high blood pressure usually requires lifelong management, not all patients need to take medication for life. Some patients can reduce drug dependence by making lifestyle changes such as diet control, increasing exercise, etc.
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Hypertension is a common chronic disease, and many people do not have obvious symptoms in the early stages of the disease, which makes hypertension often overlooked.
However, long-term high blood pressure, if left uncontrolled, can have serious effects on physical health. Here are some of the symptoms that can occur with high blood pressure:
1. Headache:
People with high blood pressure may experience headaches, especially when they wake up in the morning. This headache is usually constant and sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
2. Vertigo:
High blood pressure can cause vertigo, especially when standing or changing posture suddenly.
3. Tinnitus:
Some people with high blood pressure may experience tinnitus, which is a constant buzzing or ringing sound.
4. Vision problems:
High blood pressure can cause blurred or decreased vision, especially when looking at distant objects.
5. Chest pain:
People with high blood pressure may experience chest pain, especially during strenuous exercise or emotional excess.
6. Fatigue:
High blood pressure can cause fatigue and weakness, making people feel less energetic.
7, limb hemp wood:
People with high blood pressure may experience numbness or tingling in their hands and feet.
It is important to note that not everyone will experience these symptoms, and some symptoms may be a manifestation of other health problems. Therefore, if you have the above symptoms, you should seek medical attention in time for examination.
If you want to stabilize your blood pressure, you need to do these 4 things on a regular basis
1. Eat a balanced diet:
Reduce salt intake, increase whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and limit high-fat and high-cholesterol foods. Minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium help control blood pressure.
2. Moderate exercise:
Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling, can boost heart function, improve blood circulation and help lower blood pressure. At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week is recommended.
3. Manage stress:
Long-term stress can cause blood pressure to rise. Stress relief through meditation, deep breathing, yoga or hobbies has a positive effect on blood pressure control.
4. Take medication according to the doctor's instructions:
For people with high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe antihypertensive medications. Taking your medication on time, having regular check-ups, and adjusting the dosage according to your doctor's recommendations are important ways to control your blood pressure.