Ways To Lower Blood Pressure and Help Your Vascular Disease

In this article brought to you by the Cardiovascular Specialists of York, we discuss tips for preventing high blood pressure, and outline methods for lowering blood pressure if it becomes elevated. If you are looking for a cardiologist, or heart doctor, in the area, then call Cardiovascular Specialists of York to speak with a member of our team.

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the measurement of the force exerted by blood against the walls of arteries. It is represented by systolic pressure over diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure indicates the force when the heart contracts, while diastolic pressure represents the force when the heart relaxes between beats. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

Preventing High Blood Pressure

There are a number of measures you can take to reduce the risk of high blood pressure, and it’s about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Adopting a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products promotes cardiovascular health. Also, limiting sodium intake is essential to prevent water retention and reduce blood pressure levels.

Further, engaging in regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, improves cardiovascular fitness, and reduces the risk of high blood pressure.

Finally, excessive alcohol intake is known to raise blood pressure to unhealthy levels. Moderation is key, with doctors recommending to limit alcohol consumption to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Lowering High Blood Pressure

If blood pressure becomes elevated, there are ways to help lower it. These can be as simple as breathing exercises and as involved as medication.

As we mentioned earlier, and as you are probably aware, implementing lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on blood pressure. Emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products while limiting sodium intake, can effectively lower blood pressure. Regular exercise is also important.

Chronic stress can also contribute to high blood pressure. Adopt stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or engage in hobbies and activities that promote relaxation.

In some cases, medication may be prescribed to control and reduce high blood pressure. Common types include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers. These medications help relax blood vessels, reduce fluid volume, or block certain hormonal effects to lower blood pressure.

Consult with a Licensed Physician

The information on this page should not be taken as medical advice in place of guidance by a healthcare professional.

Since high blood pressure is often asymptomatic, it is important to monitor blood pressure regularly. If you suspect you have high blood pressure or experience any concerning symptoms, it is recommended to consult a dependable cardiologist or healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Cardiovascular Specialists of York offers premier vascular care. Call us today to consult with a member of our team.