Hypertensive heart disease is a condition that is usually the result of ongoing hypertension, or high blood pressure. If high blood pressure remains untreated, hypertensive heart disease is often the result. Controlling high blood pressure before hypertensive heart disease develops is the best option, but if you have been diagnosed with hypertensive heart disease, there are measures you can take to alleviate the symptoms and risk factors and possibly reverse your condition.
Instructions
1. Check your blood pressure regularly. High blood pressure causes the heart to work harder. As this happens, the arterial walls become thicker, and the heart no longer performs optimally. Hypertensive heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death as a result of high blood pressure. Invest in a good "at home" blood pressure cuff to monitor your blood pressure on a daily basis. Schedule regular blood pressure checkups with your physician. Keeping a close eye on your blood pressure is important in controlling hypertensive heart disease.
2. Control dietary intake. Food labels must be read, and total daily sodium intake should be limited to 2,000 milligrams or less. Select foods in their natural form, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, which will help you increase your fiber intake. Many fruits and vegetables--such as cranberries, watermelon and asparagus--act as natural diuretics. Limit caffeine intake, as caffeine can cause dehydration, which can lead to inflammation, a cause of high blood pressure. It is also necessary to limit foods with refined sugar and fats, as well as alcohol consumption.
3. Develop an exercise regimen. Exercise is vital in maintaining heart health. Be sure to receive clearance from your doctor before committing to an exercise regimen. High-impact exercise is not necessary. A simple activity such as light walking is a terrific place to start if you have hypertensive heart disease.
4. Embrace a healthy lifestyle to control hypertensive heart disease and your blood pressure. If you smoke, quit. If you are overweight, make every effort to take off pounds. If you implement the dietary changes listed above and add light exercise, excess weight will naturally come off. Above all else, keep close contact with your medical provider in monitoring your medical condition.
Tags: blood pressure, heart disease, high blood pressure, high blood, hypertensive heart disease