High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a global health issue and a leading cause of heart disease and other serious health problems.
Traditionally, doctors have paid attention to two types of blood pressure readings: systolic pressure, measured when the heart beats, and diastolic pressure, measured when the heart rests between beats. Until now, the focus has often been on keeping diastolic pressure within the range of 70–90 mmHg.
However, new research from NUI Galway, which analyzed data from over 47,000 patients worldwide, suggests a shift in this traditional approach. The study found that low diastolic pressure may not be as harmful as previously believed.
Instead, it highlighted the importance of controlling systolic pressure, particularly keeping it between 100 and 130 mmHg, as systolic readings above 120 mmHg significantly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
This new understanding simplifies treatment for hypertension, focusing on managing systolic pressure rather than worrying about diastolic pressure being too low.
This streamlined approach could make it easier for healthcare providers to treat high blood pressure effectively and reduce the risks of heart attacks and strokes.
Preventing and Managing High Blood Pressure
While medical treatments are essential, lifestyle changes play a crucial role in preventing and managing high blood pressure. Here are some strategies that can help:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on the heart, increasing blood pressure. Losing even a small amount of weight can make a big difference.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. These nutrients support heart health and help lower blood pressure.
- Reduce Salt Intake: Sodium can tighten blood vessels, raising blood pressure. Aim to keep daily salt intake below 2,300 milligrams, or even lower if possible.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, or swimming, helps control weight and lowers blood pressure naturally.
- Limit Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol raises blood pressure. Men should limit themselves to two drinks per day, and women to one.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and raises blood pressure. Quitting smoking can improve heart health and lower blood pressure over time.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can lead to higher blood pressure. Activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help reduce stress levels.
- Monitor Blood Pressure Regularly: High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so regular checks are key to catching and managing it early.
A Shift in Hypertension Treatment
This new research changes the way we think about managing high blood pressure. By prioritizing systolic pressure control, doctors can focus on what truly reduces the risks of heart disease and stroke.
For individuals, this emphasizes the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring and adopting heart-healthy habits.
With a proactive approach that combines medical care and healthy lifestyle choices, millions of people worldwide can better manage their blood pressure and improve their overall health.
This updated understanding of hypertension not only enhances treatment strategies but also empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that may increase high blood pressure risk, and drinking green tea could help lower blood pressure.
For more information about high blood pressure, please see recent studies about what to eat or to avoid for high blood pressure, and 12 foods that lower blood pressure.
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