With the increasing trends of obesity and chronic illnesses in America, many people are looking for information on how they can improve their health and increase their general well-being. One of the biggest areas in which people are looking for information is in heart health and proper heart maintenance.
In 2007, heart disease became the leading cause of death in the United States, killing one person approximately every 34 seconds in this country. This fact can be a terrifying reminder for millions of Americans who are overweight and suffering from heart complications such as high blood pressure.
Controlling your blood pressure early in life and before significant problems arise can be one of the most effective preventative health measures a person can make. However, finding an effective, safe, and reliable method to control blood pressure can be far more difficult than one might imagine. Be sure to consult your doctor before acting on any recommendations, and rely only on professional advice to find the blood pressure control method that will suit your individual body the best.
Causes of High Blood Pressure
Stress levels are a major contributor to many people’s blood pressure problems. Taking the time to relax and calm down periodically throughout the day can significantly decrease your risk of blood pressure complications.
Alcohol and tobacco use are two of the biggest contributors to high blood pressure issues in Americans. Smoking increases heart rate and can lead to significant increases in blood pressure. Although consuming alcohol may temporarily decrease your heart rate, the long term effects of high alcohol use can have tremendously negative impacts on your overall heart health.
Several medicines that are over the counter and a couple of supplements as well can be causes of high blood pressure. Antidepressants, birth control pills, nasal decongestants and cold medications are just some of the examples. If you are concerned about the medicine you are taking, ask your doctor about it. Ask any questions that you may have about blood pressure.
In some cases, however, a simple change in lifestyle habits will not be enough to control your high blood pressure. If this is the case, be sure to see your doctor to determine which blood pressure controlling medicine might be right for you. Be sure to disclose to your doctor any other medications you are taking, or any lifestyle habits which could complicate the effects of blood pressure control medicines.
In today’s market, consumers are bombarded with hundreds of different treatments for high blood pressure, both over-the-counter and by prescription. Many of these products boast immediate results with no side effects. However, consumers should be aware that almost all effective blood pressure treatments do take time to reach proper effectiveness, and most are likely to have at least a few negative side effects.
Below is a brief list of some of the most common forms of blood pressure medications. Again, remember to consult your doctor before beginning any type of blood pressure regulation.
Alpha-Blockers
Alpha-blockers work by reducing the impulses of nerves to the body’s blood vessels, resulting in easier blood flow and a decrease in overall blood pressure. The medication reduces the restriction of your body’s blood vessels, allowing them to remain relaxed and decrease high blood pressure. Some common forms of alpha-blockers available by prescription are Hytrin, Cardura, and Minipress.
Beta-Blockers
The main purpose of beta-blockers is to reduce the overall heart rate of the user. The medication works to reduce the stress on the heart, allowing it to beat lighter and slower. With less force pushing your blood through vessels, beta-blockers effectively reduce high blood pressure. Common forms of beta-blockers available today include Blocadren, Cartol, Coreg, Sectral, and Zebeta.
Diuretics
Diuretics work by triggering your kidneys to remove excess sodium and water from the body. By doing so, your blood will have less volume and will be able to flow more smoothly throughout your body. Diuretics are commonly known as “water pills” and are usually the first medication which your doctor will recommend to lower blood pressure. Common forms of diuretics include Dyrenium, Lasix, Lozol, and Midamor.
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
These inhibitors work to prevent your body from producing angiotensin II, which is a bodily hormone that triggers your blood vessels to tighten. By lowering the amount of this hormone in your body, you will allow the vessels to remain relaxed. With easier blood flow, your blood pressure will decrease significantly. Some common forms available today include Vasotec, Altace, Monopril, and Mavik.
Alternatives to Prescription Medications
Of course, there are substitutes for taking these often times dangerous medicines. You can modify your lifestyle pattern. For example, eating the right kinds of food can be of help in controlling blood pressure. Other food seasonings can be an alternative to salt, which is a major contributor to many people’s high blood pressure issues. Adding plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits to your diet has also been proven to significantly decrease your risks of high blood pressure complications.
Furthermore, adding regular exercise to your daily lifestyle will have a tremendous impact on controlling your blood pressure. Doctors typically recommend at least 30-minutes of exercise every day.
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