Hypertension
Hypertension is a condition also known as high blood pressure, which involves blood pressure levels being chronically elevated. There are two main types of hypertension – primary and secondary.
Primary hypertension is hypertension that has no discernible cause, and these cases make up close to 95 percent of all known hypertension cases. Secondary hypertension has an underlying cause, such as kidney disease or some form of tumor.
Hypertension puts a patient at risk of contracting a variety of other diseases, many of which can be life-threatening. Among the most common problems caused by hypertension are cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, and heart failure.
Some of the symptoms that may be used to identify hypertension are morning headache, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, anxiety, nose bleeds, heart palpitations, blurred vision, and flushed or pale skin. These symptoms are not unique to hypertension, however, and are often symptoms of other types of disease as well.
Most patients suffering from hypertension do not present any symptoms until the late stages of the disease, where the threat to a patient’s health is severe.
Natural Cures for Hypertension
In order to get rid of hypertension, there are several home remedies that you may follow in addition to paying your doctor a visit. It is important to get professional medical treatment if you suspect that you have hypertension, as it is often fatal if left untreated.
Less Salt
Salt intake is one of the main contributing factors to hypertension, as it increases the volume of fluid in the blood, thus elevating pressure in the blood vessels. Many of our diets are high in salt, and in order to treat hypertension, you need to ensure that your diet is as free of salt. Steer clear of traditionally salt-rich foods, and use less salt when cooking.
More Potassium
Researchers have discovered that potassium also plays a key role in keeping blood pressure levels low, and it is important that you obtain your daily recommended dose of potassium. Some doctors are of the opinion that patients suffering from hypertension should consume twice the recommended dose of potassium, this should only be done if your doctor recommends it.
Potassium-rich foods such as bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, and oranges are excellent for fulfilling your daily potassium needs.
Cayenne Pepper
This spice has been proven to prevent the clumping together of platelets in the blood. This reduces the possibility of blockages within the blood vessels, thus playing a role in reducing blood pressure.
Keep a Healthy Weight
As we gain weight, so can high blood pressure increase. Some people that are overweight may experience difficult breathing while sleeping which can lead to increased blood pressure levels. Losing weight can be very effective for controlling blood pressure.
Regular Physical Activity
Just 30 minutes a day can help lower your blood pressure. Some exercises are: walking, aerobics, swimming, take a dance class, and if possible join a gym for a more intense work out. Try to be consistent with exercise as blood pressure can rise again if you stop for a length of time.