High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a common health condition that can lead to serious problems like heart disease and stroke if left untreated. For many years, doctors have mainly focused on controlling diastolic blood pressure—the lower number in a blood pressure reading.
However, a recent study suggests that doctors should pay more attention to systolic blood pressure instead. Systolic blood pressure is the top number in a blood pressure reading, and it measures the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart beats.
This new research was conducted by scientists from NUI Galway and other institutions. They analyzed health data from more than 47,000 patients from around the world to see if there is a point where lowering diastolic blood pressure becomes dangerous. Surprisingly, they found no evidence that reducing diastolic blood pressure to very low levels causes harm.
This is different from what many doctors used to believe. For a long time, it was thought that if diastolic blood pressure got too low, it could lead to problems like poor circulation or damage to the organs. This study challenges that idea and suggests that there is no “too low” limit that would cause harm.
Because of this finding, the researchers recommend a new way to think about high blood pressure treatment. Instead of focusing so much on keeping diastolic blood pressure in a certain range, they suggest that doctors concentrate on keeping systolic blood pressure between 100 and 130 mmHg.
This shift in thinking allows doctors to lower systolic blood pressure without worrying that the diastolic pressure will drop too much. This could help patients better control their high blood pressure and reduce their risk of heart problems.
This change in focus could make a big difference for many people. High systolic blood pressure is known to be a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. By making it the main target in treatment, doctors might be able to lower these risks more effectively. This study opens the door to new ways of managing hypertension that could save lives.
Even though this study shows the importance of systolic blood pressure, it is still important for people to take care of their overall health to prevent high blood pressure in the first place. There are many simple things people can do to keep their blood pressure under control.
Maintaining a healthy weight is important because extra weight puts more strain on the heart. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can also help. Foods that are high in fiber and low in fat are especially good for heart health.
Limiting salt (sodium) intake is another key factor. Too much salt can make your blood vessels tighten up, which raises blood pressure. Experts recommend keeping sodium intake below 2,300 milligrams per day.
Exercise is also crucial; regular physical activity helps the heart work more efficiently and can lower blood pressure over time. Activities like walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling for at least 30 minutes a day can make a big difference.
Cutting back on alcohol can also help. Too much alcohol can raise blood pressure and harm the heart. The general recommendation is no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
Quitting smoking is another important step because smoking damages blood vessels and makes blood pressure worse. The good news is that blood pressure starts to improve soon after quitting.
Managing stress is also helpful for keeping blood pressure in check. Chronic stress can cause blood pressure to stay high over time. Techniques like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and regular relaxation can help lower stress levels.
Finally, it is important to get regular blood pressure checks. High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it usually does not cause symptoms until it becomes very serious. Regular check-ups can catch problems early and prevent major health issues.
This new study, led by Bill McEvoy and his team, was published in the medical journal Circulation. It suggests that by focusing more on systolic blood pressure, doctors could better protect patients from the dangers of heart disease and stroke.
While more research is needed to fully understand the best ways to manage blood pressure, this study provides important new insights. By taking steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle and work with doctors to manage systolic blood pressure, people can greatly reduce their risk of serious heart problems.
This new way of thinking could make hypertension treatment simpler and more effective for millions of people.
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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