Why Blood Pressure Cuff Size Matters

People who get their blood pressure checked with a cuff that’s much too tight or too loose on their upper arm won’t get an accurate reading — and may get misdiagnosed as a result.

By Lisa Rapaport

March 11, 2022

Everyday Health Archive

Fact-Checked

Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association.Getty Images

Blood pressure cuffs really aren’t one-size-fits-all. To the contrary, a recent study suggests that people who get their blood pressure checked with a cuff that’s the wrong size for their arm circumference may have undetected hypertension or get incorrectly diagnosed with this condition.

Like people, blood pressure cuffs come in many sizes. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that the length of the bladder that wraps around patients’ upper arms be 75 to 100 percent of their arm circumference for a snug but not excessively tight fit. Cuffs for a “regular” size adult might get accurate readings for a person with an arm circumference of around 27 to 34 inches, according to the AHA, but it would be inaccurate for somebody with a much smaller or larger size.

Many previous studies have noted inaccurate blood pressure readings made with ill-fitting manual blood pressure cuffs that clinicians pump by hand to compress around the upper arm, but new research presented at the AHA’s Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle & Cardiometabolic Health Conference 2022 suggests that inaccuracies also occur with newer, automated blood pressure monitors.

“Accurate blood pressure measurement depends on proper patient preparation, positioning, measurement technique, and individualized selection of cuff size,” says Tammy Brady, MD, PhD, the lead author of the new study and the medical director of the pediatric hypertension program at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, according to the AHA. This is defined by the AHA as a systolic blood pressure (the “top number,” which measures the pressure blood exerts against artery walls when the heart beats) of at least 130 mmHg (millimeters of mercury), or a diastolic blood pressure (the “bottom number,” which measures the pressure blood exerts in the arteries when the heart rests between beats) of at least 80 mmHg.

For the study, researchers compared blood pressure readings for 165 adults who had separate measurements done with both a “regular” adult-size cuff and with a cuff appropriately sized for their arm circumference.

Overall, 30 percent of the study participants had hypertension, according to their systolic blood pressure.

Slightly more than two in five people in the study had obesity. When these people who required an extra-large blood pressure cuff had measurements done with a “regular” adult size cuff, this inaccurately increased their systolic blood pressure readings by an average of 19.7 mmHg and their diastolic blood pressure readings by an average of 4. 8 mmHg.

In 39 percent of these cases, people with obesity were misdiagnosed with hypertension as a result.

Similarly, people who needed a “small” blood pressure cuff had hypertension that went undetected in 22 percent of cases when their measurements were done with a “regular” adult size cuff. When these people who needed a smaller cuff had measurements with a “regular” cuff, this inaccurately decreased their systolic blood pressure readings by an average of 3.8 mmHg and their diastolic blood pressure readings by an average 1.5 mmHg.

“The degree of under- or overestimation depends on the size discrepancy of the cuff to the size of the arm, and can be substantial,” says Jordana Cohen, MD, an assistant professor of medicine and epidemiology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia, who wasn’t involved in the new study.

To avoid this problem and get your blood pressure checked with a cuff that fits, you should ask your provider to measure the circumference of the middle of your upper arm, Dr. Brady advises. You should also do this yourself before you buy a blood pressure monitor for home use.

“If a cuff pops off when being inflated or if the device provides multiple error messages while you’re trying to obtain a blood pressure, that might be a sign the cuff is too small,” Brady says.

By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

7 Ways to Prevent Hypertension

Hypertension can raise your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious illnesses. Take these steps to keep your blood pressure under control.

By Krisha McCoyMay 10, 2023

Herbs and Supplements for Hypertension

Hypertension is on the rise, and many people are turning to alternative treatments for help. Learn which alternative treatments are getting the most attention…

By Sara CalabroMay 2, 2023

Blood Pressure Pills Recalled Over Potential Cancer Risk

Quinapril and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, prescribed to treat hypertension, are being recalled over concerns that the pills may be contaminated with . ..

By Lisa RapaportDecember 28, 2022

New Drug May Lower Blood Pressure In Hard-to-Treat Patients

The experimental drug baxdrostat may help hypertension patients who can’t sufficiently reduce their blood pressure with other medications.

By Lisa Rapaport

November 11, 2022

Fact-Checked

Patients with excessive aldosterone levels in the blood are resistant to treatment with commonly used drugs for hypertension.
Canva

Some people with uncontrolled high blood pressure who can’t manage the condition effectively with typical multidrug treatment regimens might one day achieve this goal with a single pill, a new study suggests.

The early-stage study included 248 people with what’s known as treatment-resistant hypertension, who had unhealthy blood pressure levels despite taking at least three different medications to manage the condition. Participants were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or a 0. 5-, 1-, or 2-milligram (mg) dose of the experimental drug baxdrostat.

After 12 weeks of treatment, patients on the highest baxdrostat dose saw their systolic blood pressure — the “top number” that shows how much pressure blood exerts against artery walls when the heart beats — drop by an average of 20 points, according to study results published in the The New England Journal of Medicine.

“The results of this first-of-its-kind drug are exciting, although more testing is required before we can draw comparisons with any existing medications,” co-senior study author Morris Brown, MD, a professor of endocrine hypertension at Queen Mary University of London, said in a statement.

“But baxdrostat could potentially offer hope to many people who do not respond to traditional hypertension treatment,” Dr. Brown added.

Baxdrostat also worked at lower doses, although with less dramatic results. Systolic blood pressure declined by an average of 17.5 points with the 1 mg dose and by about 12 points on average with the 0. 5 mg dose.

At the start of the study, most patients had average systolic blood pressure levels over 140 millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which is classified as stage 2 hypertension by the American Heart Association (AHA). Doctors often prescribe a combination of several different blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes like improved eating and exercise habits.

By the end, many of the patients on baxdrostat reduced their systolic blood pressure levels enough to be classified with either stage 1 hypertension — a range from 130 mmHg to 139 mmHg.

A total of 44 percent of patients in the study experienced side effects, most of which were mild. The most common side effects, occurring in at least 5 percent of patients, were urinary tract infections, elevated potassium levels, headache, and fatigue. Eight patients experienced serious side effects, including dangerously low blood pressure, abnormally low sodium levels, and unusually high potassium levels.

Baxdrostat works by preventing the body from making aldosterone, a hormone that can cause salt to be retained in the body, driving up blood pressure. Patients with excessive aldosterone levels in the blood are resistant to treatment with the commonly used drugs for hypertension. Baxdrostat suppressed blood and urine levels of aldosterone.

The study results were from the second of three phases of clinical trials typically required for U.S. regulatory approval. CinCor Pharma supported the trial and employed several researchers involved in the study.

By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

7 Ways to Prevent Hypertension

Hypertension can raise your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious illnesses. Take these steps to keep your blood pressure under control.

By Krisha McCoyMay 10, 2023

Herbs and Supplements for Hypertension

Hypertension is on the rise, and many people are turning to alternative treatments for help. Learn which alternative treatments are getting the most attention…

By Sara CalabroMay 2, 2023

Blood Pressure Pills Recalled Over Potential Cancer Risk

Quinapril and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, prescribed to treat hypertension, are being recalled over concerns that the pills may be contaminated with . ..

By Lisa RapaportDecember 28, 2022

High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Whether you have high blood pressure before becoming pregnant or develop it during pregnancy, monitoring and controlling your hypertension during pregnancy…

By Cathy CassataOctober 24, 2022

meaning and norms for health

Content

• 1 Lower blood pressure: what is the norm and why it is important
  • 1.1 Lower blood pressure: definition and meaning
  • 1.2 Related videos:
  • 1.3 How to determine the lower arterial pressure:
  • 1.4 Low blood pressure values ​​for health
  • 1.5 Low blood pressure guidelines for different age groups
  • 1.6 How to lower low blood pressure?
    • 1.6.1 Healthy lifestyle
    • 1.6.2 Medications
    • 1.6.3 Stress
    • 1.6.4 Seeing a doctor
  • blood pressure
  • 1. 8 Increased lower blood pressure: symptoms and effects
    • 1.8.1 Symptoms of high low blood pressure:
  • 1.9 How to deal with high low blood pressure
    • 1.9.1 1. Change your lifestyle
    • 1.9.2 2. Follow your doctor’s recommendations
    • 1.9.3 3. Manage your stress levels
    • 1.9.4 4. Monitor your blood pressure
  • 1.10 Linking lower blood pressure to other health indicators 90 008
  • 1.11 Image influence low blood pressure
  • 1.12 When to see a doctor for low blood pressure
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What is low blood pressure?
      • 1.13.0.2 What are the norms for lower blood pressure?
      • 1.13.0.3 Can lower blood pressure be higher than upper?
      • 1.13.0.4 What can affect lower blood pressure readings?
      • 1.13.0.5 What does elevated lower blood pressure say?
      • 1.13.0.6 What measures to take in case of high lower blood pressure?

Find out how low blood pressure indicates the state of your heart and circulatory system. Read about the causes of high and low pressure and how to prevent its occurrence.

Blood pressure is one of the most important indicators of human health, as it is a measure of the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Lower arterial pressure (lower blood pressure) is a kind of distribution indicator that characterizes the level of tension on the walls of large arteries with a relaxed heart. It is necessary to know its values ​​for the timely detection of arterial hypertension. Hypotension, which means persistently low lower blood pressure, can also cause disease.

Norms of lower blood pressure can be different and depend on both age and gender, as well as on the habits of a person, his lifestyle. Moreover, recommendations on the level of lower blood pressure depending on age are strongly recommended to be taken into account even when a healthy person, since circulatory disorders can lead to serious diseases at any age.

The value of lower blood pressure varies from 60 to 100 mm Hg. Art., this value determines the quality and usefulness of blood circulation throughout the body. However, do not think that more is always better. Large numbers often indicate the presence of diseases of the cardiovascular system and require medical intervention.

Lower arterial pressure: definition and meaning

Lower arterial pressure (NAP) is a measure of blood pressure that measures the strength of the heart’s contraction during its relaxation (diastole). NBP is also called diastolic pressure.

The NAD value is an important indicator for assessing the state of the cardiovascular system and general health. With increased diastolic pressure, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke, increases.

Diastolic pressure depends on the condition of the artery walls and peripheral vascular resistance. With increased peripheral vascular resistance, diastolic pressure increases, and when it decreases, it decreases. Also, NAD can be increased as a result of disorders of the kidneys, endocrine glands, certain drugs and other factors.

Related videos:

How to measure low blood pressure:

To measure low blood pressure, use a sphygmomanometer and a cuff placed on the patient’s forearm. Such a method is called non-invasive, i.e. does not require penetration into the circulatory system.

When taking a measurement, the cuff is filled with air to a certain pressure, which varies depending on the age and health of the person. Then, the cuff is gradually lowered and the sound of the heartbeat is heard through the stethoscope. The moment when blood begins to pass freely through the vessels determines the value of diastolic (lower) pressure.

The number of inscriptions, which corresponds to a decrease in heart sounds, determines the pulse pressure, which is the difference between the upper and lower blood pressures.

It is important to follow certain rules before measuring pressure: before the procedure, you must relax and do not engage in physical activity for 30 minutes, do not smoke or use caffeine.

Read only when necessary

53.19%

Read often

34.04%

Read rarely

12.77% blood pressure for health

Lower blood pressure (diastolic) is an important indicator of cardiovascular health systems. It determines the force with which blood presses against the walls of the arteries when the heart is relaxed. Normal lower pressure values ​​vary depending on the age and general condition of the person.

It is dangerous when the lower pressure drops to critical values, which indicates a violation of blood circulation in the body. With low diastolic pressure, the blood can not effectively cycle in the body, tissues become starved of oxygen and nutrients. The result is fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath and weakness.

On the other hand, increased lower blood pressure can lead to various complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney and blood vessel problems. Therefore, it is important to monitor blood pressure and regularly monitor its signs. The best way to do this is by measuring on a tonometer.

• The optimal clinical indicator for is a lower pressure of 70-80 mmHg.
• The acceptable level of for healthy people aged 18 and over may be 60-90 mmHg.
• Increased level is considered from 95 mmHg. and higher, which is a symptom of arterial hypertension.

It should be remembered that the ideal pressure for each person is individual and depends on age, heredity, lifestyle and the presence of chronic diseases. Therefore, regular monitoring of blood pressure and consultation with specialists will help maintain good health and protect yourself from serious health problems in the future.

Lower blood pressure norms for different age groups

Lower blood pressure (lower blood pressure) is an indicator that reflects the strength of the blood flow inside the arteries during diastole, that is, relaxation of the heart. Low blood pressure is an important component of blood pressure and can be an indication of problems with the heart, circulation, kidneys, and other organs.

Norms of lower blood pressure depend on the age of the person. According to the World Health Organization, the normal lower blood pressure for adults is 60-90 mmHg. However, for certain age groups, slightly different ranges may be established.

1. Children 1-3 years: 54-57 mmHg Art.
2. Children 4-6 years old: 56-63 mmHg Art.
3. Children 7-10 years old: 60-70 mmHg Art.
4. Adolescents 11-12 years: 65-76 mmHg Art.
5. Adolescents 13-15 years: 70-80 mmHg Art.
6. Adults 20-40 years: 70-90 mmHg Art.
7. Adults 41-60 years: 75-91 mmHg Art.
8. Adults over 60: 80-91 mmHg Art.

It is worth noting that the norms of lower blood pressure may vary depending on the specific person living them. Therefore, it is important to conduct regular medical examinations and consult a doctor at the first signs of a blood pressure disorder.

How to lower lower blood pressure?

Lower blood pressure (diastolic pressure) is one of the indicators of the health of the human cardiovascular system. For a healthy adult, the normal diastolic pressure is 60-80 mmHg. Art. However, for people over 60, these values ​​may increase. If the pressure is below normal, then this may indicate the presence of disorders in the body. How to lower low blood pressure?

Healthy lifestyle

Nutrition, an active lifestyle and the rejection of bad habits contribute to the normalization of blood pressure. It is necessary to monitor your weight, avoid spicy, salty and fatty foods. Exercise regularly, go outside for fresh air, stop smoking and alcohol. Remember that sleep also plays a significant role in the process of normalizing blood pressure.

Medications

People often take medicines prescribed by a doctor to normalize their blood pressure. One of the most commonly used drugs are diuretics, which help remove excess fluid from the body. Beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors may also be prescribed. However, you should not prescribe medications for yourself and take them yourself.

Stress

One of the main factors in increasing human pressure is stress. Therefore, to stabilize the pressure, it is necessary to reduce the level of stress. For this, relaxation techniques, meditation, yoga, aromatherapy, pleasant activities, hobbies and just positive emotions are recommended.

Consulting a doctor

For an accurate diagnosis of the state of the cardiovascular system, as well as to find a way to normalize pressure, you need to see a doctor. The doctor may recommend additional research methods and prescribe the necessary course of treatment.

What can lead to high lower blood pressure

Low blood pressure is one of the main indicators of human health. However, elevated lower blood pressure can lead to serious health problems.

One of the reasons for high blood pressure is obesity. Excess weight affects the cardiovascular system and can lead to high blood pressure, including low blood pressure. Also, stress, nervous tension, lack of movement and an unbalanced diet with a lot of salt and fat can lead to an increase in pressure.

Another factor, especially in the elderly, may be the age-related change in the elasticity of the arteries. Arteries lose their flexibility, become more rigid, which leads to an increase in blood pressure, including lower.

In the presence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, kidney or thyroid disease, blood pressure may also increase. Therefore, it is important to monitor your health and periodically be examined.

• Obesity
• Stress and nervous tension
• Lack of movement and unbalanced nutrition
• Age-related changes in the elasticity of the arteries
• Chronic diseases (diabetes, kidney or thyroid disease)

High lower blood pressure: symptoms and consequences

Symptoms of high lower blood pressure:

• Frequent headaches pain, especially in the occipital region;
• Dizziness and tinnitus;
• Increased fatigue and weakness;
• Frequent nervousness and irritability;
• Increased sweating and redness of the skin;
• Edema, especially in the legs and/or face.

In the event of a prolonged increase in lower blood pressure, serious complications may occur:

• Damage to the heart, blood vessels and kidneys;
• Development of coronary heart disease;
• cerebrovascular accident, hypoxia;
• Increased risk of heart attack;
• Development of chronic heart failure;
• Decreased quality of life.

At the first sign of high blood pressure, seek medical attention for diagnosis and treatment.

Managing High Lower Blood Pressure

1. Change Your Lifestyle

If you have high lower blood pressure, lifestyle changes are recommended. This means that you must start taking care of your health. Exercise regularly, give up bad habits, eat less salt and animal fats, and control your weight. This will help improve your overall health.

2. Follow your doctor’s advice

Seek medical attention if you have high blood pressure. He will offer you the necessary treatment, which will help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. This may be taking medication or advice on diet and lifestyle. In any case, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations.

3. Control your stress levels

Stress can make your health worse. Try to reduce the level of stress in your life. It can be sports, meditation or a consultation with a psychologist. By controlling your stress levels, you can improve your overall health, including lower blood pressure.

4. Monitor your blood pressure

To monitor your health, it is recommended to measure your blood pressure regularly. This will help to identify even the slightest deviations and take the necessary measures in a timely manner.

• Conclusion: High blood pressure can be controlled by making lifestyle changes, following your doctor’s advice, managing your stress levels, and measuring your blood pressure regularly.

Relationship of lower blood pressure with other health indicators

Lower blood pressure (LBP) reflects the force that blood exerts on the walls of the arteries during relaxation of the heart. It is one of the most important indicators of human health and can affect other indicators.

A systemic disease such as diabetes can affect NDA levels, which can in turn affect other parameters such as blood cholesterol levels. A high NDA may indicate impaired kidney function, while a low level may be associated with low energy levels and fatigue.

In addition, NDA may be associated with the risk of stroke, heart disease and other serious diseases, as it reflects the relationship between the impact of blood on the walls of the arteries and their strength.

However, do not forget that the assessment of NDA should be carried out in conjunction with other indicators such as upper blood pressure, pulse rate, age and general health. Only a comprehensive and timely examination can help maintain health and prevent serious diseases.

Effects of lifestyle on lower blood pressure

Human lifestyle, including diet, activity, alcohol and smoking, play an important role in maintaining normal lower blood pressure (NAP).

Proper nutrition, rich in vegetables, fruits, fish and low in animal fats, helps to reduce NAD by 5-10 mmHg. Including almonds, bananas, and oatmeal in your diet can also help maintain normal NAD.

Physical activity also has a positive effect on lower blood pressure. Regular exercise helps lower blood pressure by 4-9mmHg Art.

Alcohol and smoking, on the contrary, have a negative effect on NAD. Drinking alcohol in large quantities can lead to an increase in blood pressure, and nicotine in smoking tobacco causes vasoconstriction and increased heart activity.

Therefore, in order to maintain a normal low blood pressure, it is necessary to follow a lifestyle, respect proper nutrition, exercise regularly and avoid harmful habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol.

When to See a Doctor for Low Lower Blood Pressure

Low lower blood pressure (diastolic) is a common condition in the general population. However, it is not always a pathology. Normal pressure is 60-80 mm Hg. Art., but some people may be lower.

• If the pressure drops sharply, accompanied by dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness and other symptoms, you should call an ambulance.
• If you experience frequent symptoms such as fainting, dizziness, or severe chest and head pain, you should consult a cardiologist or general practitioner.
• It is also worth seeking help if a person feels weak, tired, has difficulty breathing, and general symptoms of depression that may be associated with low blood pressure.

In some cases, low blood pressure may be the result of a serious illness such as heart failure, infections, anemia, etc. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to your health and consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Q&A:

What is low blood pressure?

Lower arterial pressure is an indicator of blood pressure during diastole, that is, at the time of expansion of the heart. It is the second number in the measurement of blood pressure and is called diastolic pressure.

What are the norms for lower blood pressure?

Normal blood pressure for a healthy person is 60-80 mm Hg. Art. However, in the presence of chronic diseases and other factors, these figures may differ.

Can lower blood pressure be higher than upper?

No, normally the lower blood pressure is always lower than the upper one. If the opposite occurs, it may be a sign of serious health problems and requires a mandatory consultation with a doctor.

What can affect lower blood pressure readings?

Lower blood pressure readings can be affected by many factors: alcohol and coffee consumption, physical activity, diet, stress, cardiovascular disease, and many others.

What does elevated lower blood pressure say?

Elevated lower blood pressure can be a sign of heart problems, kidney failure, inflammation and other diseases. It can also be the result of an improper lifestyle: smoking, drinking alcohol, lack of physical activity, poor nutrition.

What measures to take in case of high lower blood pressure?

If you have high lower blood pressure, you should first consult a doctor to find out the cause and prescribe treatment. It is also important to monitor your lifestyle: stop smoking and drinking alcohol, eat right, allocate time for physical activity. In some cases, medication may be required.

How does high blood pressure affect me?

Arterial hypertension is a disease in which arterial (blood) pressure is consistently elevated, which puts additional stress on the heart and is a risk factor for many heart diseases.

But high blood pressure can be successfully controlled with lifestyle changes or medication. The more effectively the increase in blood pressure is kept under control, the less the risk of complications.

Upper pressure – 130 /85 – refers to the highest pressure in the large arteries at the time of contraction of the heart muscle.

Lower pressure – 130/ 85 – is the lowest recorded pressure in the large arteries at the moment of relaxation of the heart muscle.

Requires for both pressures to be within limits.

Temporary increase in blood pressure is considered normal

• during exercise
• when excited, stressed

Persistent high blood pressure indicates hypertension.

Hypertension does not go away on its own.

The first step in hypertension is lifestyle change. If at the same time the blood pressure does not normalize, it is necessary to begin its treatment.

Hypertension is an independent disease with a hereditary predisposition caused by:

• overweight
• stress and mental tension
• light physical activity
• alcohol abuse
• smoking
• wrong eating habits

Less common causes of hypertension may be other diseases: kidney disease, hormonal disorders, etc.

How does high blood pressure occur?

Regulation of blood pressure in the body occurs by changing the tone of blood vessels, the speed of the heart, the strength of the heartbeat and the amount of fluid. This activity involves the heart, blood vessels, and kidneys through various complex hormonal and other metabolic mechanisms. The most important of them are:

• Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system acting in the kidneys
• coordination of relaxation of smooth muscles of blood vessels

If these normally functioning mechanisms are out of balance, the body is unable to regulate the tone of the blood vessels and high blood pressure occurs. Nitric oxide (NO) is formed in the inner layer of blood vessels, the endothelium. The formation of nitric oxide in hypertension is impaired, the walls of blood vessels are compressed, thickened and the lumen of the vessel narrows.

The heart has to work harder to push blood through constricted vessels and provide the tissues with oxygen at the same level. This, in turn, causes the heart muscle to thicken and the heart itself to become deficient in oxygen, which can lead to heart failure. In addition, high blood pressure is a risk factor for blockage of blood vessels, which is often the cause of heart attack and stroke.

Blockage of blood vessels and disruption of the normal activity of the endothelium are caused by smoking, low physical activity and unbalanced, incl. fatty food.

Move regularly – movement helps control body weight, stimulates metabolism, has a positive effect on blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar balance.

It is advisable to get at least three times a week a half-hour aerobic exercise: brisk walking, ball games, swimming, running, cycling.

Eat right – less salt, less animal fats, more vegetables and fruits.

Avoid alcohol abuse – Excess alcohol increases body weight and is toxic to heart muscle cells. It is advisable to avoid drinking alcohol.

Keep your body weight within normal limits – Normal body weight reduces the workload on the heart. Normal body weight is considered when the body mass index is in the range of 18-25 (body mass index = weight (kg) / height (m) x height (m)).

Quit smoking – smoking prevents the absorption of oxygen by tissues and increases the tone of blood vessels, which increases the load on the heart.

Rest regularly – sufficient rest will help to avoid overwork.

Control your stress – Stress hormones are released under constant influence, muscle tension increases, blood vessels constrict, blood pressure rises. Therefore, learn to suppress stress!

Stable high blood pressure is an additional burden on the heart. High blood pressure damages blood vessels and accelerates the formation of deposits on their walls.

Usually, at first, high blood pressure does not manifest itself in any way – there is no change in well-being, there are no symptoms of the disease – but changes are already taking place in the heart and blood vessels.

Irreversible changes occur over the years, resulting in

• coronary heart disease (may manifest as angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, sudden death)
• heart failure
• kidney injury, kidney failure
• stroke
• damage to the blood vessels of the eyes
• male impotence

If hypertension is well controlled by drugs, then the development of damage to the blood vessels is inhibited.

Sex and high blood pressure

In men, persistently high blood pressure impairs the blood supply to the penis, which can lead to erectile dysfunction and impotence.

Studies have shown that hypertensive men over 40 years of age have lower levels of male sex hormone in their blood and sexual activity than men with normal blood pressure. To maintain normal sexual activity in hypertension, it is necessary to maintain blood pressure within the normal range. With well-controlled blood pressure, sex is safe for health.

Sports and sauna

Physical training is a stimulating activity for the cardiovascular system. With the right load, the body learns to better respond to mental and physical stress.

In hypertension, physical exercise is necessary and acceptable, but blood pressure must be controlled.

Preferably

• dynamic loading, e.g. running, swimming, walking, cycling, etc.
• Avoid isometric activities such as athletic training.

The best frequency of training: at least three times a week for half an hour of dynamic exercise. It is important that the volume and intensity of your workouts match the capacity of your heart, so a heart load test is recommended to determine the appropriate load. This also applies to physical work.

Sauna is comparable to physical activity

• if the pressure is higher than normal, then the heat of the bath overloads the heart
• if the pressure is controlled by drugs, then this is a good workout for the heart and cardiovascular system

It is recommended to avoid hot baths and long stays in the steam room. It is important to drink enough fluids (soft drinks) to make up for the loss of fluid in the hot bath.

Food and alcohol

There are no foods that can treat high blood pressure. The choice of food can influence risk factors: blood cholesterol levels and overweight.

Good for the heart:

• less salt
• less animal fats
• more fruits and vegetables
• less alcohol

High blood pressure is a risk.