English 11
What Is Hypertension And How Is It Controlled?
Hypertension, an abnormally high arterial blood pressure, if left unattended, can cause
many health problems including stroke and heart attack. Hypertension can be controlled
by altering one's lifestyle, avoiding stress, and with medication under a doctor’s
supervision. To prevent hypertension or to keep it under control:
Do not smoke
Exercise regularly
Reduce salt and fat intake
Have regular physical checkups
Maintain proper weight
Why Measure Blood Pressure At Home?
Blood pressure measured at a clinic or doctor's office may cause apprehension and
can produce an elevated reading, 25 to 30 mmHg higher than that measured at home.
Home measurement reduces the effects of outside influences on blood pressure
readings, supplements the doctor's readings and provides a more accurate, complete
blood pressure history.
WHO Blood Pressure
Classification
Standards
to
assess high blood
pressure, without regard to age,
have been established by the
World Health Organization (WHO),
as shown in the chart on the right.
Blood Pressure Variations
An individual’s blood pressure
varies greatly on a daily and
seasonal basis. It may vary by 30 to 50 mmHg
due to various conditions during the day. In
hypertensive individual variations are even more
pronounced. Normally, the blood pressure rises
while at work or play and falls to its lowest levels
during
sleep. So, do not be overly concerned by the
results of one measurement.
Take measurements at the same time every day
using the procedure described in this manual to get to know your normal blood
pressure. Regular readings give a more comprehensive blood pressure history. Be
sure to note date and time when recording your blood pressure. Consult your doctor to
interpret your blood pressure data.
