Not just a silent killer, high blood pressure (HBP) can affect quality of life. Blood vessel damage reduces blood flow throughout your body.
HBP can lead to stroke by creating conditions where vessels can burst or clog more easily.
HBP can lead to vision loss from a lack of blood flow to the retina that leads to blurred vision or the complete loss of sight.
HBP can affect your sex life. Lower blood flow to the pelvis can affect both men and woman.
HBP can lead to a heart attack from a buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances that narrow the arteries serving the heart.
HBP can lead to kidney damage by causing damage so they are not able to deliver enough blood to the kidney tissue.
The best way to know if your blood pressure is in a healthy or unhealthy range is to get your blood pressure checked. If you are diagnosed with high blood pressure, you should monitor your blood pressure regularly.
Healthy lifestyle choices to lower your blood pressure:
- Not smoking
- Eating healthy foods
- Losing extra pounds
- Regular physical activity
- Limiting alcohol
- Reducing salt