Blood pressure measures the pressure or force of blood inside your arteries. Each time your heart beats, it pumps blood into arteries that carry blood throughout your body. This happens very frequently, almost constantly.
The Difference Between Heart Rate And Blood Pressure
Both blood pressure and heart rate involve the heart, but they differ. Blood pressure is how powerfully blood travels through your blood vessels, while heart rate is the number of times your heart beats in one minute.
Moreover, an increased heart rate doesn’t mean your blood pressure is rising. The only way to know your blood pressure is to measure it with a blood pressure cuff and gauge.
The Ups And Downs Of Blood Pressure
Your blood pressure doesn’t stay the same at all times. It changes based on what you’re doing. When you’re exercising or excited, your blood pressure goes up. When you’re resting, your blood pressure is lower.
Your blood pressure can also change because of your:
- Age
- Medications
- Changes in position
- Diet
The Importance Of Blood Pressure Control
High blood pressure usually has no symptoms. It can damage your heart, kidneys, and brain before you know anything is wrong. Moreover, high blood pressure is a major cardiovascular disease risk factor. Without treatment, high blood pressure can certainly cause:
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Enlarged heart
- Heart failure
- Peripheral artery disease
- Aneurysms
- Kidney disease
- Broken blood vessels in your eyes
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Bring My BP Down Quickly?
- Meditate or focus on deep breathing
- Reduce your stress levels
- Take a warm bath or shower
When Should I Check My Blood Pressure?
You should have a blood pressure checkup twice annually. If your doctor notices that your blood pressure is high during your appointments, they suggest that you check it at home as well. It may be once or several times a week.
What Are The Treatments Available For High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure is undoubtedly a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Treatment includes making changes recommended by your healthcare provider.
Diet And Lifestyle Changes
- Get regular exercise
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Have no more than two drinks that contain alcohol per day
- Manage stress and anger
- Avoid all tobacco and nicotine products
- Manage lipid levels (LDL, cholesterol, triglycerides)
- Manage other health conditions like diabetes
Medications And Follow-Up Care
Take all medications as prescribed. Consult your doctor before taking any medications. Blood pressure medication does not continue to work after you stop taking it.
Some over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants, can change how your blood pressure medication works.
Furthermore, keep all follow-up appointments so your doctor can monitor your blood pressure, make any needed medication changes, and help manage your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Take Control Of Your Health Today With Mobee Medical Associates
Are you having trouble controlling your blood pressure? Then, contact Mobee Medical Associates. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals will certainly help you with all your blood pressure problems. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.