Apart from medications prescribed by your doctor, lifestyle, too, plays a vital role in treating hypertension. A couple of lifestyle changes can actually help you manage hypertension, as a sedentary lifestyle is one of the main causes of hypertension. Let’s have a look at some of the ways you can manage hypertension:
Watch Your Waistline
Weight gain or obesity can result in disrupted breathing, which may increase the risk of high blood pressure. Every added pound of body weight can make dealing with the blood pressure ailment a lot more difficult - hence, it’s advisable to watch your weight, especially if you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension.
Eat Healthy
Food high in sodium and fats are known to aggravate hypertension and its symptoms. Instead, it is advisable to consume whole grains, fresh fruits, veggies, and greens which provide the body with all the nutrition it requires without raising blood pressure levels.
Cut Down on Addictions
Alcohol and smoking are known to increase blood pressure levels. Limiting alcohol consumption can not just regulate blood pressure but also improve the effectiveness of hypertension medicines. Quitting smoking, on the other hand, can reduce the risk of heart disease, which is a common consequence of heart ailments.
Sleep Well
Sleeping for more than six hours every day is a great way to ensure the body isn’t stressed out. Sleeping less than six hours can only contribute to not just hypertension but many other ailments. It is important to have a sleep schedule and make efforts towards creating a conducive environment where you can get a good night’s rest. For those who find napping during the day, you can also include short naps of not more than 30 minutes in your daily schedule.
Lastly, you need to monitor your blood pressure and take your medicines on time as prescribed. If you feel any symptoms, you can always reach out to your doctor for further medical advice.