High blood pressure is a common health problem worldwide that seriously affects the arteries of the body. Blood pressure refers to the force that circulating blood exerts on the walls of the arteries. A certain amount of pressure is needed for the blood pumped from the heart to flow smoothly through the vessels. However, when this pressure is consistently high, the heart has to make extra effort to pump blood. This can damage the arteries, leading to heart attack, stroke, and other serious health problems.
High blood pressure symptoms and treatment
Blood pressure often progresses without symptoms, but there are some common symptoms of high blood pressure. These symptoms include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, nosebleeds, bloodshot eyes, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and increased nighttime urination.
Indicators of high blood pressure include:
- Headache: Persistent or throbbing headaches.
- Dizziness: Feeling of imbalance and dizziness.
- Vision problems: Double vision or blurred vision.
- Nosebleed: Nosebleeds of unknown cause.
- Humming in the ears: Buzzing or ringing in the ears.
- Irregular heart rhythm: Irregular heartbeat or palpitations.
- Chest pain and shortness of breath: Chest pain and difficulty breathing.
- Increased frequency of urination: The need to urinate more frequently at night.
- Weakness and fatigue: Constant fatigue and lack of energy.
- Swelling in the legs: Swelling in the legs due to edema.
These symptoms may indicate serious effects of high blood pressure and may require professional medical evaluation.
The basis of hypertension treatment is lifestyle changes. However, medication plays a major role in the management of high blood pressure. Like any treatment, hypertension treatment should be customized to individual needs. Concerns about blood pressure medications being addictive or harmful may stem from the potential side effects of the drugs. However, modern medications not only help control blood pressure, they also protect the cardiovascular system and support kidney function.
What lowers high blood pressure the fastest?
When asked how to lower high blood pressure at home, the most effective known blood pressure lowering methods are as follows:
Washing face with cold water
When blood pressure is high, washing your face with cold water can quickly lower your blood pressure by stimulating your nervous system. This simple method provides immediate relief and can help you control your blood pressure.
Drinking lemon water and ayran
Lemon is rich in potassium, which helps balance the blood pressure-increasing effect of salt. Squeezing lemon into a glass of water and drinking it can lower your blood pressure. Similarly, consuming potassium-rich ayran can have positive effects on blood pressure.
Drinking enough water
Staying hydrated plays a critical role in regulating blood pressure. Increasing your daily water intake can help balance your blood pressure and support your overall health.
Consuming garlic
Garlic regulates blood flow by dilating blood vessels, thus contributing to normal blood pressure levels. Consuming it raw or adding it to your meals can be an effective method as a natural blood pressure reducer.
How should one sleep when blood pressure rises?
When blood pressure is high, it is best to lie on your back to promote relaxation and help balance blood pressure. This position promotes relaxation and can help regulate blood flow. Taking deep breaths and exhaling slowly while lying down can help control your blood pressure. If you have swelling in your legs, keeping your legs slightly elevated while lying down can provide relief. You can use a pillow to help with this.