Control Blood Pressure with Simple Methods

Control Blood Pressure with Simple Methods

The World Health Organization's statistics show that there are 1 billion people with high blood pressure, making it a major cause of premature deaths worldwide. In Thailand, the rate of illness and hospitalizations has been continuously increasing. Alarmingly, 60% of men and 40% of women with the condition have never been diagnosed before, as they are unaware of their condition due to the absence of clear symptoms in the early stages, but have chronic high blood pressure.

Normal blood pressure values are considered to be less than 120 mmHg for the upper (systolic) and less than 80 mmHg for the lower (diastolic) values. If these values are continuously elevated without treatment, the high pressure in blood vessels can damage vessel walls and vital organs throughout the body, causing arteries to harden, slowing blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the heart. This can lead to heart failure, blocked or ruptured brain arteries, causing disability or paralysis. Furthermore, it can also cause kidney failure or end-stage renal disease.

This condition can be controlled and prevented by maintaining normal blood pressure levels through reducing the consumption of high-salt foods, which is a significant risk factor. Processed foods, ready-to-eat meals, pickled and canned foods, and junk food, which are high in sodium, should be limited, such as chips, burgers, fried chicken, and sausages.

Reduce high-fat and high-sugar foods, increase low-sugar fruits, reduce alcoholic beverages, and quit smoking. Avoid stress and incorporate physical activities into your daily life, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking to the market, doing housework, etc.

Regular screening is essential, and health check-ups should be conducted at least once a year. For those already diagnosed with the condition, it is important to take medications consistently, see a doctor regularly, monitor blood pressure routinely, and keep a record of daily activities to lead a normal life.

Best wishes from Vibhavadi Hospital.