High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious illnesses. For years, doctors have paid close attention to both systolic and diastolic blood pressure when diagnosing and treating patients.
However, a recent study has revealed that focusing on systolic blood pressure might be more effective, challenging traditional approaches.
A groundbreaking study, led by scientists from NUI Galway and other institutions, analyzed data from more than 47,000 patients worldwide. The research looked at whether lowering diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number in a blood pressure reading) to very low levels could cause harm.
Contrary to past beliefs, the findings showed no evidence that reducing diastolic blood pressure to low levels poses risks.
Instead, the study emphasizes the importance of controlling systolic blood pressure (the top number in a reading).
Researchers recommend treating high blood pressure by aiming for a systolic range of 100–130 mmHg, regardless of how low the diastolic pressure falls. This approach, they suggest, could simplify treatment strategies and improve outcomes for patients.
The shift in focus to systolic blood pressure could lead to significant changes in hypertension management. Doctors may prioritize lowering systolic levels without worrying about the diastolic value dropping too low.
This refined strategy could help reduce the risk of complications like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease, which are often linked to high blood pressure.
Preventing high blood pressure remains crucial for maintaining overall health. Here are some key measures that can help:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Extra body weight puts more strain on the heart and blood vessels, increasing blood pressure.
- Eat a balanced diet: Choose foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. These can naturally help lower blood pressure.
- Limit salt intake: Too much sodium can raise blood pressure by causing blood vessels to tighten. Aim for less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity strengthens the heart, making it more efficient at pumping blood and lowering pressure. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
- Drink alcohol in moderation: Too much alcohol can raise blood pressure. The recommended limit is two drinks a day for men and one drink for women.
- Quit smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and raises blood pressure. Quitting smoking not only improves blood pressure but also reduces the risk of heart disease.
- Manage stress effectively: Chronic stress can contribute to hypertension. Relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help.
- Get regular blood pressure checks: Since high blood pressure often has no symptoms, routine monitoring is essential. Early detection allows for timely treatment.
The findings of this study, led by Dr. Bill McEvoy and published in Circulation, challenge traditional views on hypertension management. By shifting attention to systolic blood pressure, doctors can simplify treatment plans and reduce risks for patients.
At the same time, adopting preventive measures and making healthy lifestyle choices can further support long-term blood pressure control and overall health.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and natural coconut sugar could help reduce blood pressure and artery stiffness.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about added sugar in your diet linked to higher blood pressure, and results showing vitamin D could improve blood pressure in people with diabetes.
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