Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often termed "the silent killer" because it is typically asymptomatic. It is also increasingly common as obesity becomes an epidemic. Hypertension is strongly correlated with a high body mass index (BMI), or ratio of height to weight.
Hypertension
The National Institutes of Health defines a normal blood pressure as less than 120/80 mmHG. Prehypertension is diagnosed at a level between 121/81 and 139/89 and is considered a significant warning sign for future development of hypertension. Blood pressure measured above 140/90 at rest on two occasions or more is considered full-fledged hypertension.
Body Mass Index
BMI is defined as a person's height divided by weight squared. The value is also easily determined by use of a chart, readily available online.
A body mass index between 20 and 25 is within normal limits. BMI between 25.1 and 29.9 is considered overweight, while anything higher is defined as obesity.
Effects
Both obesity and hypertension are associated with a significantly increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Changes to diet and the addition of a regular exercise regimen can help patients lose weight and reduce blood pressure.
Diet
Reducing intake of sodium, alcohol and caffeine can help control blood pressure. Excessive salt intake may cause water retention and bloating, which can also add pounds.
The National Institutes of Health advocates following the Dietary Approaches for Stopping Hypertension (DASH) Diet. This is a menu full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats; it is low in sweets, salt and red meat. Ideally, this diet reduces both BMI and blood pressure.
Medication
Blood pressure consistently higher than 140/90 mm Hg is typically controlled with prescription medication in addition to lifestyle changes.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) can cause blood pressure increases and should be used with caution in patients with hypertension. Certain over-the-counter medications such as cold and allergy medicines can also make hypertension worse.
Often an effective weight loss plan leads to decrease in blood pressure, which alleviates these concerns and may eliminate the need for blood pressure medications.
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