Many households now own blood pressure monitoring devices, and people often measure their blood pressure at pharmacies or with the help of others. However, understanding the correct method of measuring blood pressure is essential:

● Rest for 30 minutes before measuring blood pressure.

● Measure blood pressure while sitting comfortably in a chair with your arm on a table or while lying down.

● Avoid consuming tea, coffee, or smoking for at least 30 minutes before measuring blood pressure.

● Calibrate the device at least once a year to ensure accuracy.

How Often to Measure Blood Pressure?

● For individuals with hypertension who are taking medication, if they have a blood pressure measuring device at home, they can measure their blood pressure daily, 30 minutes after breakfast or in the afternoon when resting. If that's not possible, they should measure their blood pressure at least once a week.

● For individuals without hypertension but with a family history of high blood pressure, it's recommended to measure blood pressure at least once a month after the age of 40.

Risk Factors

● High blood pressure is the main cause of stroke. It can lead to hemorrhage or blockage in the blood vessels of the brain.

● High blood pressure can cause the heart muscle to thicken, leading to diastolic dysfunction and increasing the risk of arterial blockage. When high blood pressure is combined with diabetes and high cholesterol, heart problems can become even more complex.

● High blood pressure is another risk factor for kidney disease, aside from diabetes.

● Vision problems can occur, such as a dark curtain-like obstruction appearing in front of the eyes, which may resolve on its own after some time.

Long-term Use of the Same Medication

● If blood pressure is under control, long-term use of the same medication may not be a significant issue. However, regular follow-up with a doctor is essential due to potential side effects of medications. Some blood pressure medications can cause potassium levels to decrease, while others may cause them to increase, requiring periodic monitoring. Additionally, kidney problems can arise, making regular creatinine tests crucial.

● Hypertension patients should regularly follow up with their doctor. Initially, follow-ups should be scheduled every month after diagnosis, and later, every three months. This is because blood pressure can fluctuate, and medication dosages may need to be adjusted accordingly.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

● Pain in the back of the head (occipital region) or a headache throughout the entire head.

● Dizziness.

● A feeling of tightness in the chest or shortness of breath, especially when climbing stairs.

‌Lifestyle for Hypertension Patients

● Reduce salt intake to no more than 5 grams per day.

● Include fiber-rich vegetables, fruits, and dry fruits in your diet. Some studies suggest that potassium-rich foods can help lower blood pressure, although there is some disagreement on this.

● Avoid a sedentary lifestyle. For those with desk jobs, take short walks during breaks. Consider getting off public transport a stop earlier and walking home. Aim for at least 30 minutes of walking daily, which is also essential for weight management.

● Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption entirely.

● No fast food, junk food, or cold drinks at all.

Managing High Blood Pressure

When high blood pressure is detected, the initial focus is on lifestyle modifications. If blood pressure remains uncontrolled, medication is prescribed. High blood pressure is a controllable condition, not curable. Therefore, never stop medication without consulting your doctor.