Living a healthy life has long exited the list of many, because of an unending struggle to survive.
Commonly referred to as hypertension, high blood pressure, based on research, has a prevalence of 28.9% in Nigeria.
Blood pressure is the pressure at which the heart pumps blood to the body via the arteries. A normal blood pressure is significant of a proper functioning heart.
In reading blood pressures, the systole is read separate from the diastole; a blood pressure of 120/80mmHg indicates a systolic pressure of 120, and a diastolic pressure of 80; both of which are not totally dependent on each other.
In diagnosing hypertension, series of blood pressure checks are carried out, and the results are monitored. These results may be classified into the following stages:
Blood pressure within 121 – 139/ 81 – 89mmHg is referred to as pre-hypertension,
Pressures ranging from 140 – 159/ 91 – 99 indicates stage one hypertension, and blood pressures above `160/100 is regarded as stage two hypertension.
Depending on where the results fall, the physician proffers treatment via medications and lifestyle modification therapies. Regular checkups will enable monitoring and early diagnosis of hypertension.
However, it is safer to eat healthy foods and carry out healthy activities.
Before taking snacks or processed foods, it is advisable to check the sodium content of such foods, as high dietary sodium is a predisposing factor to hypertension.
The Recommended daily allowance (RDA) of sodium is 2,300mg per day. One must avoid consumption of sodium that exceeds this amount per day.
Living a non-sedentary lifestyle will help maintain a healthy heart; frequent intake of water and regular exercises are advisable.
It is also pertinent to note that as one ages, the normal blood pressure may rise or begin to fluctuate. This may not be a call for concern, provided the appropriate steps are taken.
Right living remains the key to a healthy heart, and a healthy life.
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