1. Get a Diagnosis
More than sixty-five million Americans have hypertension, or high blood pressure, but most of them are unaware of the condition because it has no specific warning signs. There are no physical symptoms of hypertension so the only way to tell of you're hypertensive is to have your blood pressure checked regularly by your doctor. If you haven't asked your doctor about hypertension before, ask him at your next checkup if you have high blood pressure.
2. Monitor Your Pressure
If you have hypertension, monitoring your blood pressure is one of the most important things you can do. Invest in a home blood pressure monitor; lots of personal blood pressure monitors are so easy to use that you can operate them with the push of a button. Take your blood pressure at the same time every day for consistency and use your left arm for the reading. The left arm is closer to your heart so you'll get a more accurate blood pressure reading. Rest for five minutes and don't smoke or eat for 30 minutes before taking your reading.
3. Keep Your Doctor Updated
You need to work with your doctor to control your blood pressure, so tell her if your home blood pressure readings are consistent or if you notice changes in your pressure levels. Your doctor can prescribe medication to help you manage your hypertension but you need to inform her about your blood pressure on a regular basis. That way, she'll be able to make helpful recommendations and prescribe the right medication for you.
4. Be Active for Your Heart's Sake
As long as your hypertension is under control, there's no need to limit your daily physical activities. Being physically active and exercising is one of the most effective steps you can take to help control your hypertension. Discuss an aerobic exercise plan that fits your health level and weight with your doctor and make a commitment to exercise regularly.
5. Stay in Control
Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight helps keep your hypertension controlled. Add foods that are low in fat and salt and high in fiber to your daily diet and try to minimize your alcohol consumption if you drink regularly. Determine your ideal healthy weight with your doctor and work to maintain a weight within those parameters. Eating well will improve your overall health and help keep your hypertension under control so you can live an active and healthy life.
