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2.3. What can be done if your blood pressure valves are consistently high or low?
a) Please consult your doctor.
Increased blood pressure values (various forms of hypertension) are associated with
considerable health risks. The concern is the arterial blood vessels of your body, which are
endangered due to constriction caused by deposits in the vessel walls. (Arteriosclerosis) This
can and does cause deficient supply of blood to important organs such as the heart,
brain, and muscles. Furthermore, with long-term continuously increased blood pressure
values, the heart will become structurally damaged.
There are many different causes of high blood pressure. We differentiate between common
primary (essential) hypertension, and secondary hypertension. Secondary hypertension (high)
can be related to specific organ malfunctions. Please consult your doctor for information
about the possible origins of your own increased blood pressure values.
Lifestyle changes may assist in the reduction of a medically established high blood pressure
prevention. These lifestyle changes should be practiced on a continual basis:
1. Eating habits
• Strive for a healthy weight corresponding to your age.
• Avoid excessive consumption of common salt.
(Many packed foods contain large amounts of salt.)
• Avoid fatty foods.
2. Previous illnesses
Consistently follow any medical instructions for treating previous illness such as:
• Sugar Diabetes (Diabetes mellitus);
• Fat metabolism disorder, and,
• Gout..
3. Habits
• Smokers should give up smoking completely.
• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderate amounts only.
• Restrict your caffeine consumption (Coffee, coke, tea, chocolate, etc.).
4. Physical constitutioning:
• After a medical examination and clearance from your doctor, exercise regularly.
• Choose sports which require stamina and avoid those which require strength.
• Avoid reaching the limit of your performance.
•
With previous illnesses and/or an age of over 40 years, please consult your doctor
before beginning your physical activities. Your doctor will advise you regarding
the physical activities that are best for you.