High Blood Pressure

 High blood pressure (HBP) is common among senior citizens in the United States and is a serious condition that can significantly increase the probability of having coronary heart disease, a heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems and risks. In literal terms, “blood pressure” is the force of blood pushing against arterial walls while the heart pumps out blood. A large force over a long period of time is called HBP and it can cause extensive damage to the body. It is very important that senior citizens understand what their blood pressure means and how they can effectively prevent and, if necessary, treat HBP. People who participate in the elder care of senior citizens should also be familiar with HBP and how they can encourage behaviors that facilitate healthy blood movement. 

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Overview

In the United States, about one in three adults have HBP. By itself, HBP has no apparent symptoms; it could be damaging the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the body for years without any obvious signs. Because of this, knowing your blood pressure is important regardless of how you physically feel. That way, you can take the necessary steps if your pressure is too high. Senior citizens and those involved in their elder care should monitor blood pressure regardless of what range it is in. If it is normal, you should work to keep it in that range. If it is high, you should seek treatment to minimize and prevent damage to your body. 

Blood Pressure Numbers

The numbers that make up the pressure reading include systolic pressure, which is the pressure when the heart is pumping blood, and diastolic pressure, which is the pressure when the heart is resting between beats. Often, your blood pressure will be written and stated as systolic over diastolic. For example, you might see 120/80 mmHg, which someone would say aloud as “120 over 80.”

The following table presents normal numbers for adults and shows you which numbers place you at a greater risk for health problems. BP may fluctuate, but if your numbers are consistently above normal, you are at risk for developing high blood pressure.

*These ranges apply to adults without short-term serious illnesses, which could temporarily change blood pressure.

Levels above 120/80 mmHg raise your risk, which continues to rise as the numbers increase. “Prehypertension” implies that you are prone to developing high BP if steps are not taken to prevent it. If you have been treating HBP and your numbers have been in the normal range, your BP is under control, but you still have the condition. Therefore, it is important to continue the treatment to maintain normal levels even if you attain a healthy blood pressure at some point.

Causes

High blood pressure is common in senior citizens because blood pressure tends to rise with age unless you take steps to prevent or control it. For this reason, it is important that senior citizens and those involved in their elder care monitor blood pressure to ensure that it remain in or return to the normal range.

There are certain medical problems that may raise blood pressure levels, such as chronic kidney disease, thyroid disease, and sleep apnea. Some medicines may also raise blood pressure. These include medications for asthma (corticosteroids) and even over-the-counter cold-relief products.

Some women experience a raise in blood pressure if they use birth control pills, become pregnant, or use hormone replacement therapy. For women going through menopause, taking hormones to reduce symptoms can cause a small rise in systolic blood pressure. If you already have HBP and would like to begin taking hormones, you should discuss the risks and benefits with your physician. If you decide to follow through with taking hormones, it is important to find out how to control your blood pressure and how often you should get it checked to prevent more serious health problems.

Risk Factors

Many risk factors for HBP exist, including certain traits, conditions, and habits. The major risk factors for HBP are described below.

Age

Since blood pressure rises with age, senior citizens have a higher risk of developing HBP. In the United States, over half of the senior citizens have HBP. The most common form of HBP in senior citizens is isolated systolic hypertension (ISH), which is defined as having high systolic pressure (top number) only. About two-thirds of senior citizens with HBP have ISH. Although many senior citizens have HBP, it is not necessarily a normal part of aging. There are many ways to stay healthy and maintain blood pressure at a normal level as we age.

Race and Ethnicity

Anyone of any background can develop HBP, but it is more prevalent in African American adults than it is in Caucasian or Hispanic American adults. In relation to these groups, African Americans: 

• Tend to get HBP earlier in life
• Often have more severe HBP
• Are more likely to be aware that they have HBP and to get treatment
• Are less likely than Caucasians and about as likely as Hispanic Americans to achieve target control levels with HBP treatment
• Have higher rates than Caucasians of premature death from HBP-related complications, such as coronary heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure

HBP risks vary among different groups of Hispanic American adults. For instance, Puerto Rican American adults have higher rates of HBP-related death than all other Hispanic groups and Caucasians. But, Cuban Americans have lower rates than Caucasians.

Overweight or Obesity

If you are overweight or obese, you are at a higher risk for developing HBP. Being overweight is defined as having extra body weight from muscle, bone, fat, and/or water; obesity is defined as having a high amount of extra body fat.

Gender

More adult men than women have HBP, yet younger women aged 18-59 are more likely than men to be aware of and seek treatment for BP. Women over 60 have the same likelihood as men of being aware of and seeking treatment for HBP, but among the group of women over 60 who are being treated, control of blood pressure is lower than it is in men of the same age group.

Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Certain lifestyle habits can be risk factors for HBP. Senior citizens and their caregivers should minimize and discourage the following unhealthy behaviors:

• Consuming too much sodium in salty foods or drinks
• Drinking an excess of alcohol
• Insufficient potassium intake
• Insufficient exercise or physical activity
• Smoking

Other Risk Factors

A history of HBP in your family may increase your susceptibility to developing HBP. Long periods of stress may also contribute to your risk.

Signs and Symptoms

In general, high blood pressure by itself is not accompanied by any noticeable symptoms. Infrequently, you may experience headaches if you have HBP. It is possible to have HBP for years without realizing it. This does not mean that it is not doing harm to your body at this time; on the contrary, HBP can damage the heart, kidneys, blood vessels, and other parts of your body without your knowledge.

Often, people learn that they have HBP only after they experience a heart attack or stroke or develop coronary heart disease. Having your blood pressure checked regularly and knowing your numbers is very important in preventing damage as well as more serious health problems. Maintaining a normal blood pressure or working to lower a high blood pressure can significantly lower your risk of developing more serious health problems.

Complications 

Over time, high blood pressure can cause:

• Enlarging or weakening of the heart, which can lead to heart failure – a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood throughout the body
• The formation of aneurysms-abnormal bulges or “ballooning” in the arterial wall-in blood vessels (Aneurysms commonly form in the in the main artery that transfers blood from the heart to the body; arteries in the brain, legs, and intestines; and the artery that leads to the spleen)
• Narrowing of blood vessels in the kidneys, which may cause kidney failure
• Narrowing of arteries throughout the body (especially in the heart, brain, kidneys, and legs), which limits blood flow and may lead to a heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, or amputation of part of the leg
• Bursting or bleeding of blood vessels in the eyes, possibly leading to blindness or changes in vision

Treatment

Treatments for HBP include lifestyle changes and medication. The goal for treatment is to attain and maintain a blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg.

Lifestyle Changes

One way senior citizens can control blood pressure levels is to develop healthy habits, including:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting enough exercise
• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Quitting smoking
• Managing and learning to deal with stress

A combination of these measures works better than any one habit alone. It can be hard to change your lifestyle, but if you take it slowly and change one thing at a time, changing your habits can be more manageable. Those involved in senior citizen elder care should encourage and help facilitate these healthy changes. 

Sometimes it is possible to control blood pressure levels with lifestyle changes alone, but some senior citizens may need to take prescribed medicine on top of maintaining the lifestyle changes they have adopted to help lower blood pressure. The goal for people with HBP is to control blood pressure as much as possible, so it is important to keep up a healthy lifestyle even after beginning to take medication.

Follow a Healthy Eating Plan

Your doctor may recommend the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan if you have HBP. The DASH eating plan focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other foods that are heart healthy and lower in sodium (salt). 

This eating plan is low in fat and cholesterol. It also features fat-free or low-fat milk and dairy products, fish, poultry, and nuts. The DASH eating plan suggests less red meat (even lean red meat), sweets, added sugars, and sugar-containing beverages. The plan is rich in nutrients, protein, and fiber. 

To help control HBP, you should limit the amount of salt that you eat. This means choosing low-salt and “no added salt” foods and seasonings for the table and when cooking. The Nutrition Facts label on food packaging shows the amount of sodium in the item. You should eat no more than about 1 teaspoon of salt a day. 

You also should try to limit alcoholic drinks. Too much alcohol will raise your blood pressure. Men should have no more than two alcoholic drinks a day. Women should have no more than one alcoholic drink a day. 

Do Enough Physical Activity 

Regular physical activity can lower HBP and also reduce your risk for other health problems. Senior citizens often feel anxious about beginning an exercise routine. It is helpful to check with your doctor about how much and what kinds of activity are safe for you. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity on most or all days of the week. You can do it all at once or break it up into shorter periods of at least 10 minutes each. 

Moderate-intensity activities include brisk walking, dancing, bowling, riding a bike, working in a garden, and cleaning the house. If your doctor agrees, you also may want to do more intense activities, such as jogging, swimming, and playing sports. Those involved in the elder care of senior citizens should help facilitate and encourage appropriate physical activity for the senior. 

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Staying at a healthy weight can help control blood pressure and also reduce your risk for other health problems. If you are overweight or obese, aim to reduce your weight by 7 to 10 percent during your first year of treatment. This amount of weight loss can lower your risk for health problems related to HBP.  After the first year, you may have to continue to lose weight so you can lower your body mass index (BMI) to less than 25. 

BMI measures your weight in relation to your height and gives an estimate of your total body fat. A BMI between 25 and 29 is considered overweight. A BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. A BMI of less than 25 is the goal for keeping blood pressure under control. 

Quit Smoking 

Smoking can damage your blood vessels and raise your risk for HBP. It can also worsen health problems related to HBP. Smoking is bad for everyone, especially those who have HBP.

If you smoke or use tobacco, quit. Talk to your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit. 

Managing Stress 

Learning how to manage stress, relax, and cope with problems can improve your emotional and physical health.  Physical activity helps some people cope with stress. Other people listen to music or focus on something calm or peaceful to reduce stress. Some people pray, learn yoga, or mediate. 

Medication

It is very important to take all the blood pressure medications your physician prescribes. Know the names and doses of all your medications, and ask your doctor or pharmacist questions if you have any. Order refills of your prescriptions before they run out, and take your medicines just as they were prescribed (do not skip days or take more or less than the suggested dose). If you experience side effects, talk to your doctor about them. There may be a better medication or dosage for you. Trust your doctor-it is not a good idea to stop taking medications without consulting with a health-care professional.

Prevention

If you have normal blood pressure, you can make changes or maintain healthy habits to prevent high blood pressure. These habits include:

• Eating a healthy diet, which includes limiting sodium and alcohol intake
• Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
• Getting enough exercise or physical activity
• Quitting smoking
• Managing and learning to deal with stress

These steps, whether done individually or collectively, can help reduce the risk of developing HBP. To be most effective in delaying or preventing HBP, following most or all of the steps is suggested.

If you have high blood pressure, you can still make changes to prevent more serious effects of HBP. The healthy habits listed above, along with medication, can improve your quality of life. It is important to closely follow the treatment plan suggested by your physician-this will delay or prevent serious health problems including kidney disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

Living with High Blood Pressure

A diagnosis of HBP means that you will have to treat and control it for life-even if treatment successfully lowers your blood pressure, you still have the condition. Making lifestyle changes, taking medicines as prescribed, and getting ongoing medical care will become a part of your life.

Although treatment helps to control blood pressure, it is not a cure. Stopping treatment will raise your blood pressure again, which raises your risk for other health problems. Working toward a healthy future means closely following your treatment plan and working with your health-care team to gain lifelong control of your blood pressure.

Ongoing Care

See your doctor for checkups or tests as often as he or she recommends. Your treatment plan as prescribed by your doctor may change over time, and regular checkups allow you and your doctor to know whether your blood pressure is rising so that your treatment plan can be quickly altered as necessary. During checkups, you can ask your doctor or health care team any questions you have about your lifestyle or medicine treatments.

Keeping track of your blood pressure is vital. Have your blood pressure checked on the schedule your doctor advises. You may want to learn how to check your blood pressure at home. Your doctor can help you with this. Each time you check your own blood pressure, you should write down your numbers and the date. 

What You Need to Know About Lowering High Blood Pressure

Transient elevations in systolic blood pressure occur as normal adaptations during fever, physical exertion, and emotional upset, such as during anger and fear. Persistent hypertension, or high blood pressure, is common in obese people because the total length of their blood vessels is relatively greater than that in thinner individuals.
Although hypertension is usually asymptomatic for the first 10 to 20 years, it slowly but surely strains the heart and damages the arteries. For this reason, hypertension is often called the “silent killer”. Prolonged hypertension accelerates arteriosclerosis and is the major cause of heart failure, vascular disease, renal failure, and stroke. Because the heart is forced to pump against greater resistance, it must work harder, and in time the myocardium enlarges. When finally strained beyond its capacity to respond, the heart weakens and its walls become flabby. Advanced warning signs include headache, sweating, rapid pulse, shortness of breath, dizziness, and vision disturbances.

Hypertension also ravages blood vessels, causing small tears in the endothelium and increasing the demand for energy in countering the excessive mechanical load on the arterial vessels – this accelerates the progress of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, a stretched muscle cell accumulates more lipid than a relaxed muscle, further enhancing this metabolic and morphological change in cells and tissues. As the vessels become increasingly blocked, blood flow to the tissues becomes inadequate, and vascular complications begin to appear in vessels of the brain, heart, kidneys, and retinas of the eyes.

Systolic or pumping pressure, the higher of the two is normally around 120 in a healthy adult and the lower diastolic about 70, normally expressed as 120/70. 130/80 is average for a 40 yr old NZ male, 117/75 for a 40 yr old female. Hypertension is defined physiologically as a condition of sustained elevated arterial pressure of 140/90 or higher (which is dangerously high), and the higher the blood pressure, the greater the risk for serious cardiovascular problems. As a rule, elevated diastolic pressures are more significant medically, because they always indicate progressive occlusion and/or hardening of the arterial tree.

About 90% of hypertensive people have primary, or essential, hypertension, in which no underlying cause has been identified by their doctor. The following factors are believed to be involved:

1. Diet. Dietary factors that contribute to hypertension include excessive use of table salt, saturated fat, and cholesterol intake and deficiencies in certain metal ions (Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium).
2. Obesity.
3. Age. Clinical signs of the disease usually appear after age 40.
4. Race. More blacks than whites are hypertensive, and the course of the disease also varies in different population groups.
5. Heredity. Hypertension runs in families. Children of hypertensive parents are twice as likely to develop hypertension as are children of normotensive parents.
6. Stress. Particularly at risk are “hot reactors”, people whose blood pressure zooms upward during every stressful event.
7. Smoking. Nicotine enhances the sympathetic nervous system’s vasoconstrictor effects.

According to allopathy primary hypertension cannot be cured, but most cases can be controlled by restricting salt, fat, and cholesterol intake, losing weight, stopping smoking, managing stress, and taking antihypertensive drugs. Drugs commonly used are diuretics, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors (drugs that inhibit the renin-angiotensin mechanism by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme).

Secondary hypertension, which accounts for 10% of cases, is due to identifiable disorders, such as excessive renin secretin by the kidneys, arteriosclerosis, and endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism and Cushing’s disease. Treatment for secondary hypertension is directed toward correcting the causative problem.

20% of New Zealanders suffer from high blood pressure. Men over 35 and women over 45 should have their blood pressure checked every few years. Blood pressure results can be influenced up to 50% by temporary factors such as mood, and what one has eaten and drunk. For a correct reading take blood pressure 4-5 hours after food and never when stressed, upset or emotional. Apparently, a reading may also be altered when the kidneys are acting as the primary filtering system as opposed to the liver. If you have high blood pressure, regular monitoring is essential.

Contributing factors include high sodium intake, food sensitivities, stress, toxic chemical exposure, caffeine consumption, use of recreational drugs, cadmium and lead toxicity, smoking, and a low fibre intake.

Eliminate all junk food, alcohol, tea, coffee, sugar (can cause high blood pressure, especially if the person is lacking in Chromium), food coloring and preserved foods. MSG, baking soda, canned vegetables, commercially prepared foods, over-the-counter medications that contain ibuprofen, diet soft drinks, foods with mold inhibitors, preservatives and most sugar substitutes, meat tenderizers, softened water, and soy sauce need to be avoided. These products can cause the cells to swell and interfere with the effectiveness of diuretics in the treatment of hypertension. Increase the consumption of Potassium containing foods e.g. green vegetables, whole grains, dried fruit, bananas, grapes, peaches, plums, pumpkin, squash, potatoes, beets, brewer’s yeast, zucchini, legumes, sprouts, seeds and vegetable juices.

Arginine is a powerful stimulator of nitric oxide (NO). NO is required for the smooth muscle of the blood vessels to relax. The stress release of adrenalin raises blood pressure. Tryptophan can modify this stress response. The amino acid Histidine can also blunt the effect of adrenalin on the vascular system.

Subnormal activity of the Sodium/Potassium pump appears to be a common feature of primary hypertension and is stimulated by insulin, thyroid hormone, Taurine and Potassium. Magnesium and Quercetin also help maintain cellular electrolyte imbalance.

Lowering blood pressure is important, however elevated insulin, glucose and lipid levels must also be addressed. Lecithin granules in the diet will assist with lipid management and Cholesterol Balance by Radiance is helpful in balancing cholesterol levels. Chromium will help moderate blood sugar levels. Taurine and Methionine levels are low in hypertensive patients. Taurine lowers BP in its own right through aldosterone regulation (suppresses renin-angiotensin feedback) and facilitates the metabolism of Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium and Selenium. It also lowers heavy metal concentration. Taurine (2 g/day) should be given.

Vitamin C and Bioflavonoids strengthens blood vessel walls at 1000mg 3 times daily. Also just 1000 mg a day lowers LDL’s by 10% and blood lipids by 40%, lowering blood pressure. Niacin, Betaine hydrochloride, Vitamin E (200 IU) and Fish oils reduce blood viscosity and hence blood pressure. Taurine, Coenzyme Q10, and Lipoic acid supplementation results in a significant drop in blood pressure. Many studies have demonstrated the ability of Coenzyme Q10 to reduce blood pressure in hypertension patients. Coenzyme Q10 lowers blood pressure when taken over a long period of time. Therapeutic dosage is 60mg 3 times daily. Vitamin D supplementation in women significantly drops blood pressure. Copper supplementation may lower blood cholesterol. Increase Vitamin B6 intake. Vitamin B6 inhibits platelet aggregation and relieves edema. Too little Manganese, and Vitamin B3, has been linked to high blood pressure also.

Fish oils lower serum lipids. Therefore fish intake should be increased to at least 4 times a week. Otherwise a GLA/EFA should be used on salads etc. Fish oils depress the vascular response to agents that promote contraction. Increase calcium intake to 1000 mg/day (500mg twice daily). Calcium is a natural tranquilizer which may explain its role in lowering blood pressure. In one study of 4000 hypertensive patients, 85% dropped their blood pressure to safe levels by doubling their Calcium intake. Use calcium citrate, aspartate and orotate. Studies have shown Magnesium deficiency to be endemic to western society. Reversible hypertension is a clinical finding in hypomagnesemia and magnesium depletion; 50% of magnesium-depleted patients are hypertensive and their blood pressure returns to normal with supplementation. Magnesium regulates muscle tension through a combination of muscle physiology and neurophysiology, correcting excessive excitation, inflammation and energetic dysfunction due to insulin resistance. Magnesium lowers blood pressure, as it is a vasodilator – arterial vasospasm is a major contributor to hypertension and sudden heart attacks. It also acts as a calcium channel regulator. It normalizes heart rhythm, and reduces plasma triglycerides and lipid precipitation on blood vessel walls. Take 500 mg twice daily.

Use a high Potassium salt substitute or Celtic sea salt. A Californian biochemist, Dr Jacques de Langre, has spent 35 years researching the health benefits of sea salt. He claims that a low-salt diet for the treatment of high blood pressure is based on dogma, not evidence and a salt-restrictive diet can actually raise blood pressure. He believes refined table salt is a toxin to the body, yet unrefined Celtic sea salt is extremely healthy and may actually lower blood pressure. Potassium supplementation would be 300-600 mg daily. Excess salt itself does not normally raise blood pressure if Potassium and Calcium intake is increased also, or surprisingly, if non-chloride forms of Sodium are used. Excess Sodium is eventually expelled from our bodies, but can take valuable Potassium and Calcium along with it, often resulting in a Potassium or Calcium deficiency, both of which are major causes of high blood pressure. Potassium excretion is also increased by excess sugar, and tea, coffee and alcohol.

Insulin resistance is a major contributor to cardiovascular illness. Check for hypothyroidism. If present supplement with Selenium, Tyrosine, Iodine, Copper and Zinc.

The herb Cayenne along with Garlic will lower blood pressure. Garlic improves circulation as well as reducing cholesterol and fats in the blood. Take 4,000 mcg standardized allicin extract 3 times daily. You could use these herbs in cooking also. Hawthorn berries (1.8% vitexinn-4’rhamnoside) help to strengthen the heart muscle by increasing blood flow to the heart, thereby improving heart contractions, and reduces blood pressure by reducing resistance in the arteries. Take 250 mg 3 times daily. Combination Cayenne-Garlic-Hawthorn Formula by Nature’s Way is blended specifically for high blood pressure.

Ginkgo (24% standardized extract) improves circulation throughout the cardiovascular system and has anti-platelet as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Dandelion leaf acts as a mild diuretic so that excess fluids are excreted. Take 1 125mg capsule or 30 drops 3 times daily. Other useful herbs that have a diuretic action include Uva Ursi, Juniper berry, Cranberry and Parsley. Motherwort, Lime Blossom, Valerian, Skullcap, Lemon Balm, Kava, and Chamomile are useful herbs to add to a hypertensive prescription as they work on the nervous system to calm and soothe. Suma herb tea, 3 cups daily, has been reported to be beneficial for high blood pressure.

Reishi increases coronary blood flow. Asian clinical studies have shown it to be effective as a calmative in anxiety and hypertension, and for reducing blood pressure. Dosage is 3000 mg 3 times daily. Du Zhong is a herb from Traditional Chinese Medicine used for dizziness and light-headedness due to hypertension from “rising liver yang”.

A bowel cleanse or general detoxification program may help relieve some work from the body and may have a beneficial effect on high blood pressure. Papaya aids digestion. Alfalfa is an excellent herb to alkalinise the blood. Flaxseed oil contains essential fatty acids which help in lowering blood pressure. Take 2 tablespoons daily.

Heavy metals can cause cardiovascular problems. Increase excretion of Cadmium and Lead by supplementing with Zinc, Selenium, Calcium and Vitamin C. A hair analysis will show specifically any heavy metal toxicity and specific chelation therapy can then be used to eliminate them. Follow detoxification procedure if exposed to pesticides.

Stress management is an important part of dealing with high blood pressure. Studies on Transcendental Meditation (T.M.) at Harvard Medical School in the mid-seventies showed it to lower oxygen consumption, increase blood flow, and slow heart rate, leading to a deep relaxation. Researchers also found TM to lower levels of blood lactate, which is associated with anxiety, and to decrease blood pressure in people with hypertension. Some form of meditation, or other relaxation techniques i.e. massage, listening to relaxing music or gentle exercise, performed on a regular basis, will go a long way in assisting the reduction of blood pressure. Counselling, mental imagery, and biofeedback may also be useful. Other benefits will also be felt, like a general feeling of calm and an increased ability to deal with stressful situations.

In handling the stresses of life, people can usually be divided into two basic types – Confronters and Avoiders. Confronters face up to life’s problems while Avoiders ignore them hoping they will go away. In an experiment on anxiety induced high blood pressure, a large group of volunteers were given periodic sharp electric shocks at timed intervals. The Confronters in the group watched the clock, braced for the shock, then relaxed again. The Avoiders did not watch the clock, not wanting to know when the shock was coming. As a result, due to their constant tension, the Avoider’s blood pressure was continually an average of 30% higher than the Confronters, all of whose blood pressure remained normal.

Exercise is crucial in the treatment of hypertension. Aerobic exercise will benefit the cardiovascular system and it must be done on a regular basis. If you haven’t exercised before, or are very much out of shape, it is advisable to see a qualified health practitioner who can devise a safe program for you to follow. You can overdo it so be careful! Ideally, you want to build up to doing 20-30 minutes, 3 times a week, as a minimum. You want to be exercising so that you maintain your heart rate at 60% of its maximum. To calculate your maximum heart rate, subtract your age from 220. This is your maximum heart rate. To get 60% of your maximum heart rate, multiply the number by 0.6. This is the heart rate you want to aim for and maintain while exercising aerobically.

The Bach Flower remedies may assist with mental and emotional imbalances. Impatiens is useful for those who are agitated, impatient or easily upset. It is said that astrological FIRE signs (Aries, Leo and Sagittarius) are more prone to heart and high blood pressure problems. Acupuncture, Pulsing and Reflexology may also be helpful for high blood pressure.

Side effects of drug treatment:

Diuretics – Increased risk of mortality due to myocardial infarction or sudden death. Diuretics deplete Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc, and B group vitamins. Some diuretics have an adverse effect on serum lipids, blood glucose and raise glyco-hemoglobin concentration.

Beta Blockers – Similar to diuretics, they cause changes in serum lipid fractions. At least 25% of patients treated with beta blockers will develop a need for antidepressants. They also increase the risk of heart failure, cause weight gain, decreases energy, and sexual dysfunction. Long term use of these drugs are contraindicated. Beta blockers may decrease Coenzyme Q10 levels thus reducing energetics of cardiac cells. Coenzyme Q10 levels also fall, therefore, supplementation is required.

Alpha blockers – Alpha blockers can cause hypertension, dry mouth, constipation, sedation, and dizziness. They are not effective for long term treatment of hypertension.

Methyl dopa, Captopril, Propanolol – Up to 50% of patients taking any of the above drugs experience fatigue or lethargy; 30% had some form of sexual disorder and over 10% had sleep disorders, nightmares, headaches, anxiety, irritability, palpitations, nausea, dry mouth and muscle cramps.

Angiotensin 2 inhibitors – These can affect trace element status in the body. Selenium and Zinc are decreased and Copper rises, with this medication.

Nutritional and Herbal support for High Blood Pressure includes:

Heartcare – Heartcare is a standardized (5:1) leaf and flower extract of hawthorn. Produced by Schwabe and Co of Germany backed with 50 years of research, and subject to 80 scientific clinical studies. Improves blood flow and nutrient supply to the heart.

Garlicin HC – Garlicin with Hawthorn, Cayenne, Rutin and Vitamin E. Supports healthy heart and circulation. Assists to normalize blood pressure and to reduce cholesterol.

Magnesium Complex – Necessary for contraction and relaxation of muscles, including the heart muscle. Magnesium is known as the anti-cramping mineral and is helpful for muscle twitches around the eyes, spasms in the muscles of the arms or legs and cramps in bed at night.

Omega 3 Fish Oils – Salmon oil is one of the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids. The 0mega 3 fatty acids, mainly found in certain seafood, have been clearly shown to offer some protection against heart disease. They help reduce abnormal blood clotting, high cholesterol and blood pressure – all factors which contribute to this condition.

Coenzyme Q10 – Improves the heart-muscle metabolism, enhances immunity, acts as an antioxidant. Taking this supplement may help prevent coronary inefficiency and heart failure.

Some interesting points on High Blood Pressure:

Caution: Any individual who has been treated for by-pass surgery or has coronary blockage should not allow the diastolic blood pressure to fall below 85 mm Hg, as it increases the risk of low perfusion injury, i.e., ischaemic damage to heart and brain tissue. Furthermore, medication for hypertension needs to be restricted at night as the average drop in B.P. with sleep is 30-40 mm Hg, which once again, can compromise perfusion pressure in the elderly.

Reduce weight. Decrease salt and sugar intake and increase intake of Potassium and Magnesium rich foods. High intakes of sugar can raise blood pressure and has an additive effect with high salt intakes. Avoid deep fried foods and food additives. Reduce stress, through yoga. Stress can also produce a craving for salt. Avoid smoking. If cheese is eaten, fresh cheese is preferable to aged cheeses. Reduce or avoid all tea, coffee and alcohol. Avoid use of oral contraceptive. It increases the need for Vitamin B6 and increases the risk of stroke. Avoid the herb licorice (in excess of 3g/day of active form) as it can raise blood pressure.

Treat infections such as Chlamydia. Chronic hypertension can be caused by an infection such as Chlamydia pneumonia. Chlamydia is known to cause inflammation in blood vessels which causes high blood pressure and encourages the formation of plaque. Approximately 1/3 of patients with hypertension have antibodies to this bacterium.

Increase the consumption of oats, as they are rich in Silicon and mucopolysaccharides. Garlic, onions and ginger in cooking should be used often. Eaten on a regular basis, celery is helpful as it promotes the excretion of excess fluids and decreases blood pressure. Potassium-rich foods or supplements should be increased to reduce risk of a stroke i.e. vegetables and fruit. Increase fibre consumption in the form of apples, oat bran, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, whole grains, psyllium husks and green leafy vegetables. Fibre helps bind excess cholesterol which in turn reduces blood viscosity and thus blood pressure. Increase aerobic exercise, swimming, walking, cycling. Do not lift heavy weights. Maintain a high fluid intake – drink at least 6-8 glasses of purified water daily. Identify and eliminate food allergies and sensitivities as they can aggravate hypertension.

For purposes of measuring longevity, the lower diastolic or resting pressure is the most important figure. Listed below are the average number of years lost from a man’s life by disorders brought on by high diastolic blood pressure at age 45.

Diastolic Pressure Average years lost at age 45
90 3 years

95 6 years
100 12years

If you are taking MAO inhibitors, which are drugs that are used to counter depression, lower blood pressure, and treat infections and cancer, avoid Tyramine. Combining MAO inhibitors with Tyramine causes the blood pressure to soar and could cause a stroke. Avoid the amino acid Tyrosine also.

People who snore heavily are much more likely to have high blood pressure or angina than silent sleepers. Researchers suggest that snorers may suffer from a slight malfunctioning of the part of the brain responsible for fluent breathing; this can put an unnatural strain on the heart and lungs due to oxygen shortage.

Patients with hypertension often suffer apnea, in which they stop breathing. Apnea, which occurs while sleeping, is associated with loud snoring and restless sleep. It is not unusual for the apnoeic patient to feel excessively sleepy during the day. Evaluation and treatment of apnea can help reduce high blood pressure in these patients.

Blood Pressure Medications

Choosing blood pressure medications – This is the biggest dilemma one faces while going through high blood pressure disease. Most of the time your dilemma will be solved by your doctor, his expertise of disease and knowledge of your medical condition will decide what medication is suited best for your body. According to National High Blood Pressure Education Program has recommended established guidelines for high blood pressure. This is a coalition of doctors, professionals, and voluntary organizations and government.

The information about medication mentioned here may differ from what your doctor has advised you. This depend what level of high blood pressure you are having and in what medical condition you are in. There are people with other diseases apart from high blood pressure, in such cases it gets more complicated and this needs to be treated with combination multiple drugs.

Pre-Hypertension (120/80 – 139/89)

This is the stage when one starts developing high blood pressure. There are no major sign, which will tell you that you are having high blood pressure. If this remains undetected, this has chance of growing into high blood pressure. Undetected high blood pressure is dangerous situation and can lead to heart failure and kidney failure.

At this stage with changes in lifestyle focusing on eating and exercise can reduce high blood pressure. Ensure you are in touch with your doctor; proper diet plan and changes in lifestyle will help you in lowering high blood pressure.

Changes needed in your lifestyle are as follows:

1. Low intake of salt and sodium in your diet.

2. Stop smoking.

3. Eat lots of vegetables, fruits and low fat diary products.

4. Excess weight in your body does no good to you; it puts more pressure on heart to pump blood into vessels. Maintain healthy weight.

5. Daily exercise is needed for 30 minutes and more. In the beginning you can break this exercise into 2 or 3 parts spread across the day. There can be many ways you can do exercise, starting with simple brisk walk, dog walking, swimming, light exercise running etc. Please take doctor’s advice before doing any active exercise.

6. Stop alcohol drinks, no good to your health.

In case you have other diseases along with prehypertension, you might need medication; your doctor will be in better position to advise you about medication.

High blood pressure (140/90 to 159/99)

Stage 1 of diseases

Once your blood pressure numbers are between 140/90 and 159/89 you have progressed from prehypertension to stage 1 high blood pressure. I both numbers (top – systolic and bottom – diastolic) are high or in this range leads to stage 1 of high blood pressure.

At this point your doctor may recommend you trying diuretics. The diuretics are also called water pills. The objective of diuretics is to flush excess water and sodium from the body. The lowering of excess water and sodium helps in lowering the blood pressure and with major changes in lifestyle will help in reducing blood pressure.

Doctor will recommend you medication and changes in lifestyle to control your blood pressure. Depending upon medical condition you might need only diuretic medication with changes in lifestyle to control your blood pressure.

Blood Pressure Drugs:

Calcium Channel Blockers – The goal of the drug is to prevent calcium going into heart and blood vessel, which causes cells to relax and lowers blood pressure.

Beta Blockers – This drug helps in reducing nerve signal to heart and blood vessel, which in turn helps in lowering blood pressure.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme – This drug helps blood vessel to relax and helps blood vessel not to narrow. This drug is also helpful in reducing blood pressure.

Your doctor may recommend you one of these medications to bring down blood pressure. There can be other complications such as one suffering from diabetes etc. In such situation a combination of drug is needed to reduce blood pressure.

High blood pressure (160/100 to Above)

Stage 2 of diseases

Now if your blood pressure numbers are falling in the range of 160/100 and above, this is alarming situation. You now are in stage 2 category. At this point your doctor will prescribe you couple of medications to quickly reduce high blood pressure. Even in this case your doctor will start medication with diuretics to flush out excess water and sodium from the body. Keeping your high blood pressure number in view, your doctor will prescribe you more medication to lower blood pressure.

Blood Pressure Drugs:

Beta Blocker – This drug helps in reducing nerve signal to heart and blood vessel, lowering stress on heart helps lowering blood pressure.

ACE inhibitor – This drug helps blood vessel from getting narrow, which lowers pressure on heart and lowers blood pressure.

Calcium Channel Blocker – The drug prevents calcium going into heart and blood vessel. This helps cells to relax and which in turn lowers blood pressure.

Angiotensin II receptor blocker – This medication helps in widening blood vessel and stops hormone called angiotensin from affecting blood vessels.

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At such higher elevation blood pressure can cause kidney failure and heart stroke problems. In stage 2 hypertension, aggressive treatment and strong discipline for lifestyle in needed to lower blood pressure.

Take control of your medical situation by consulting doctor in early stages and bringing changes in your lifestyle. The medication and changes in lifestyle go hand in hand; strong discipline will surely lower blood pressure. Lastly monitor your blood pressure, at least 2-3 times a day. Do not depend entirely on this blood monitoring equipment and at no point discard visit to Doctor. Your doctor is best to judge your medical situation. The statistics have shown that a combination of good drugs and changes in lifestyle have helped patient to lower blood pressure.