Hypertension is assumed to be more prevalent in the male population. However, experts suggest that it affects both the genders equally.

A recent study published in the Journal of Hypertension indicates that there is a direct association between social ties and risk of hypertension in women. The longitudinal study including more than 28,000 people between the ages of 45 and 85 years found that women with a small social circle and limited social participation (less than two social activities in a month) are more likely to get hypertension than women who had better or more social interactions. Hypertension risk was also found to be higher in widowed women than married women.

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is assumed to be more prevalent in the male population. However, experts suggest that it affects both the genders equally. In fact, after a certain age, women are more prone to the condition than men and the former have several very unique risk factors for high blood pressure both in the pre and post-menopausal age.

Unique risk factors

According to the American Heart Association, high blood pressure is not directly related to gender. However, pregnancy, menopause and use of birth control pills are some unique factors that put women at a higher risk of hypertension.

Research suggests that women who smoke, have a genetic predisposition to hypertension or are overweight are highly likely to have high blood pressure on regular use of birth control pills.

Similarly, pregnant women often experience high blood pressure. If you have had a history of hypertension, you may have to consult your doctor before trying to conceive since high blood pressure can harm both the baby and the mother.

Gestational hypertension develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy; you may develop this type of hypertension even if you never had the condition before. And then there is pre-eclampsia, a pregnancy complication wherein the woman has high blood pressure and limb swelling and protein in urine. Pre-eclampsia can be life-threatening for the mother and preterm delivery is the only way to resolve it.

Finally, after menopause, when the estrogen levels drop, a woman’s chances of developing hypertension increases significantly. Studies suggest that a combination of various factors including individual genetics, body mass index (BMI) and increased sympathetic nervous system activity are responsible for this spike in risk. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the flight and fight response. It increases blood pressure, decreases intestinal motility and accelerates heart rate.

Difference in symptoms

As per the European Society of Cardiology, hypertensive women experience more arterial stiffness, atrial fibrillation and heart failure in older age than hypertensive men. Since they have a smaller diameter of arteries, aneurysms in women rupture at a much smaller size than in men.

Hypertension is said to be a silent killer. Usually, it does not show any symptoms unless there is organ damage. However, in some young and middle-aged women, the condition can also be symptomatic. Such women report some of the following symptoms:

• Headache
• Blurred vision
• A feeling that the bra is too tight
• Chest pain due to stress or continuous pain in chest that often travels up the shoulder and left arm or jaw
• Hot flushes
• Excessive sweating day and night
• Sleep disturbance
• Tiredness

A lot of these symptoms are associated with stress or menopause. Experts suggest that if you notice these symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor, especially if you have a family history of hypertension.

For more information, read our article on High blood pressure.

Health articles on News18 are written by myUpchar.com, India’s first and biggest resource for verified medical information. At myUpchar, researchers and journalists work with doctors to bring you information on all things health.

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Q: MY blood pressure worries me. The top number is very high, between 138 and 216, while the bottom number is in the 70s and 80s. But I have not used salt on my food for 30 years, I do not smoke and rarely drink. I eat lots of fruit and veg and have good cholesterol levels. I can’t work out why I have this problem. Can you suggest a solution?

KB

A: I CAN see why you are puzzled, and there are probably many readers in a similar position. Let me start with a short tutorial on what the blood pressure readings mean.

A reading consists of two figures. The top number is the systolic pressure, the pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts, pushing out blood (about 140ml, a teacupful) with each beat. A normal reading is 120 or lower.

The second figure, the diastolic pressure, is when the heart relaxes between beats – this should be 80 or lower. If the reading is consistently above 140 over 90, this is known as hypertension.

What you describe is a subtype called isolated systolic hypertension (ISH), where the systolic (top) reading is above 140 and the diastolic number is below 90. This condition affects older patients; studies have shown that systolic pressure rises and diastolic pressure falls after the age of 60. The elevated pressure is due to a reduction in the stretchiness or elasticity of the artery walls – part of the ageing process.

ISH accounts for up to 80 per cent of cases of high blood pressure in this age group. Other risk factors include obesity, lack of exercise, genetics (such as hypertension in one or both parents), and a high salt intake.

Treatment for all types of hypertension is essential because it can lead to heart disease, heart attacks, stroke, kidney dysfunction, and left ventricular hypertrophy (an enlargement and thickening of the walls of the heart’s main pumping chamber).

Treatment can involve lifestyle changes, such as salt restriction, exercise and weight loss, and long-term medication.

Even if you do not add salt to your food, bear in mind that many manufactured foods, such as ready-meals, contain a lot of ‘hidden’ salt. We shouldn’t be consuming more than 6g (around a teaspoon) of salt a day, so always check food labels.

Studies have confirmed the effectiveness of these lifestyle measures in controlling blood pressure. However, if they fail to bring the systolic reading down after some months, drug therapy must be started.

It is unclear whether you are already under the care of a specialist, but I would suggest you see your GP about starting on medication, as you appear to have ISH despite leading a healthy lifestyle.

This is not the place for me to describe the different classes of drugs available, that is a task for your GP, who has a full understanding of your medical history – crucial in your case as we don’t want to cause your diastolic reading to drop too low. If that happens, you can develop complications such as dizziness, or even fainting when you stand up.

The aim should be a gradual blood pressure reduction over three to six months. Of course, this takes time, observation, and regular appointments – rather scarce features at the best of times, let alone during a pandemic.

Q: WE are told continually that more men die from prostate cancer than women die from breast cancer, so why doesn’t the NHS routinely check for it?

NB

A: THERE are nearly 50,000 new cases of prostate cancer a year in the UK. One man in six will be diagnosed with it, and it’s responsible for more than 11,000 deaths a year. With such statistics, it would seem sensible to screen all men of a certain age. After all, we are often told that early treatment saves lives.

Introducing screening for prostate cancer, however, is far from simple. The prostate specific antigen (PSA) test is not ideal for screening and we are unable to determine whether a man has a slow-growing cancer that may never cause him any problems or an aggressive tumour that, unless treated, will be a killer.

Surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and hormone-suppressant drugs all carry the risk of side-effects such as incontinence and impotence.

A European screening trial that monitored men for 13 years showed that routine screening with the PSA test cut deaths by 21 per cent. However, in order to save one life, 781 men had to be screened and 27 of them treated. In other words, the reduction in deaths was at the expense of considerable over-diagnosis and over-treatment.

On that basis, the most sensible route is for men to be aware and see the GP when they have urinary symptoms: increased frequency, particularly at night, a sense of incomplete emptying, poor stream, or straining to empty the bladder.

Mostly these symptoms are due to benign enlargement of the prostate, but when they persist, it is a reason to be checked.

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SUPPLEMENTS could be used to lower your risk, or even prevent some high blood pressure symptoms. This is useful and natural remedy to avoid the deadly signs and symptoms of hypertension. Should you consider adding vitamin C supplements to your diet, to prevent high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is a common condition that affects more than 25 percent of all adults in the UK. But you could lower your risk of developing hypertension by simply taking daily vitamin C supplements, it’s been claimed.

Hypertension puts extra stress on blood vessels and vital organs.

Eating an unhealthy diet or not doing enough regular exercise could be raising your chances of high blood pressure.

But you could lower your chances of developing the condition by taking supplements, scientists have claimed.

One of the most effective remedies for hypertension is vitamin C supplements, it’s believed.

Vitamin C helps to maintain blood vessels’ elasticity, which has a subsequent effect on blood pressure, according to nutritionist Dr Sarah Brewer.

Arteries that aren’t very elastic increase the risk of hypertension.

Regularly taking vitamin C supplements could lower your blood pressure by as much as 3.8/1.5mmHg, if you already have hypertension.

The European Union recommends taking no more than 80mg of vitamin C every day.

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“Vitamin C is a useful natural remedy for high blood pressure,” she wrote on her website, MyLowerBloodPressure.com.

“It is needed for collagen formation which allows blood vessels to function normally and retain their strength and elasticity.

“As vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, it cannot be stored in the body and a regular intake is essential.

“Dietary sources include most fruit and vegetables including citrus, berries, blackcurrants, capsicum peppers, kiwi fruit and green leafy vegetables.”

Vitamin C helps the body to keep its cells healthy, while also maintaining the health of skin and bones.

Without enough vitamin C in your diet, you may be at risk of scurvy.

The most common vitamin C deficiency symptoms include having rough or bumpy skin, easily bruising, and even having corkscrew-shaped body hair.

Speak to a doctor if you’re worried that you may have a vitamin C deficiency.

Meanwhile, it’s not always easy to know if you have high blood pressure, which is why it’s often known as ‘the silent killer’.

But some of the earliest symptoms of hypertension include severe headaches and unexplained dizziness.

Everyone over 40 years old should check their blood pressure at least once every five years.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist to have your blood pressure checked.

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A 2017 study published in the JCI Insight Journal showed that a single dose of CBD could reduce resting blood pressure as well as the blood pressure response to stress.

Does that mean you can effectively use CBD oil for high blood pressure aka hypertension?

The lion’s share of CBD’s effects on blood pressure is believed to stem from its anti-anxiety and analgesic effects, as noted by the authors of a 2019 study from the Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry.

While the aforementioned benefits of CBD have been tested on healthy individuals and animals — meaning there’s a lack of research on subjects with hypertension — current findings are very promising.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• What high blood pressure is and how it can affect your health
• The benefits of using CBD oil for high blood pressure
• Scientific research on CBD and hypertension
• How to take CBD oil for high blood pressure
• Where to Buy CBD oil and what brands you can trust

Let’s start with an industry overview, where we highlight the best CBD oils for high blood pressure in 2020.

Best CBD Oils for High Blood Pressure – Our Top Picks in 2020

Taking CBD oil drops sublingually may be the best way to benefit from CBD for high blood pressure as it offers fast absorption with a relatively fast onset of effects.

In this section, you’ll find the best CBD brands that we recommend to use daily for issues related to hypertension, based on extensive tests of over 40 manufacturers.

1. Royal CBD (Best CBD Oil)

Product Details

Why Royal CBD is the Best CBD Oil for Hypertension

Royal CBD was launched in 2018 by a group of cannabis enthusiasts as a small artisan company. The guys started out with just one product in three concentrations, continuously expanding their collection with softgel capsules, THC-free gummies, and topicals for pain relief.

Royal CBD oil is available in four potency options now, starting at 250 mg up to 2500 mg of CBD per bottle.

All of Royal CBD’s premium products come from organic hemp harvested in California and Colorado, which are known as the best areas for growing hemp plants in terms of the soil quality and weather conditions. These are full-spectrum products, so you’re taking 100+ cannabinoids along with the plant’s natural terpenes, polyphenols, and other nutrients in each dose. Royal CBD tests its CBD oil in certified laboratories for content analysis and purity screening as a sound quality proof.

This is hands down the best CBD oil for common problems related to high blood pressure, such as anxiety and difficulty sleeping. My response to stress triggers, as well as focus and sleep quality, have greatly improved since I started taking it. It also has a nice neutral taste, unlike other natural CBD oils that I’ve tried.

Definitely recommended if you’re looking for the top-shelf quality without breaking the bank.

2. Gold Bee (Best Flavored)

Product Details

About Gold Bee

Gold Bee is another premium company with roots in California. This particular brand grabbed me by the throat both when it comes to the quality of its extracts and the honey-flavored version of the oil. This is the best tasting CBD oil I’ve ever taken; it feels natural, and the sweetness from the honey flavoring isn’t overwhelming, which has made my experience with Gold Bee even better.

Similar to Royal CBD, Gold Bee offers full-spectrum products from organic hemp. The plants are grown in California and Colorado without pesticides or growth boosters that could compromise their purity and potency. The only reason why this company didn’t score first place was its potency range. There are no high-potency oils in Gold Bee’s collection, which I believe will soon change.

3. CBDPure (Best Value)

Product Details

About CBDPure

CBDPure is one of the pioneer companies on the market, but despite its reputation and a dedicated community of customers, the guys at CBDPure haven’t rested on their laurels. Recently, the company has introduced a 1000 mg CBD oil to its line up, which is a great option for people with hypertension whose dosage doesn’t go beyond 30 mg CBD daily.

If transparency is your main priority, this is the best CBD company to buy from. CBDPure goes above and beyond in describing every detail of its activity, from hemp source to extraction, testing procedures, and customer service.

CBDPure has a 90-day return policy, under which you can return the product if you’re not satisfied with the effects, and you’ll get a full refund. I didn’t return mine because I was damn happy with my results, but it’s a great nod towards those who don’t want to commit on the first date.

4. Hemp Bombs (Best CBD Isolate)

Product Details

About Hemp Bombs

Hemp Bombs is a manufacturer that specializes in making premium CBD oil made from isolate. These are very potent oils, reaching up to 4000 mg of CBD per bottle.

This CBD oil is a great option for people with hypertension who want to steer clear of any THC in their product because CBD isolate contains nothing but pure CBD. This also means that the end product has no odor or flavor, being more versatile than full-spectrum CBD oil.

However, CBD isolate doesn’t produce the entourage effect, so you won’t experience the synergy from other cannabinoids and terpenes. If you want something closer to the whole-plant synergy, you can check out Hemp Bombs’ broad-spectrum extracts, which contain everything except for the said THC.

5. CBDistillery (Best Price)

Product Details

About CBDistillery

CBDistillery is another industry’s trailblazer in our ranking of the best CBD oils for high blood pressure. This company has been making high-quality CBD oil for over five years, recently reformulating their extracts and introducing a line of broad-spectrum CBD oil to provide its customers with greater freedom of choice. The broad-spectrum version is labeled as “pure oil” and contains CBD, other non-psychoactive cannabinoids, and terpenes but without any THC.

CBDistillery covers the entire potency range for CBD extracts, from 250 mg to a whopping 5000 mg of total CBD. The strongest CBD oil carries 166 mg of CBD per milliliter, which can get you supplied for months to come if you use CBD oil for preventive supplementation or to manage your blood pressure.

I’ve been satisfied with the results, as CBDistillery’s CBD oil toned my anxiety down and helped me sleep better after an intense day, without having headaches and brain fog the day after. However, I’m a bit concerned about the source of hemp this company uses. The plant isn’t organic, so you can’t expect the same quality as from other full-spectrum products on this list. However, it’s still the best CBD oil in its price category.

What is High Blood Pressure? (Hypertension)

Blood pressure refers to the amount of blood the heart pumps and the resistance to blood flow in the arteries.

Mayo Clinic reports that the higher amount of blood the heart pumps, and the less space in the arteries, the higher the blood pressure.

High blood pressure (hypertension) leads to the narrowing and blocking of blood vessels, affecting cardiovascular health by increasing the risk of having a heart attack.

If you want to test your blood pressure, your doctor will need to measure it through a blood pressure reading, which is given in two numbers.

The first figure refers to systolic blood pressure. This is the pressure created by the heart contracting and releasing blood. The second figure, known as diastolic blood pressure, refers to the state when the heart relaxes and the blood starts to fill it.

The blood pressure reads as the systolic blood pressure number over the diastolic blood pressure number, such as 120/80.

120/80 is a normal blood pressure reading for adults, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).

Results higher than that may indicate problems with high blood pressure if they are regular.

Common Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

The American Heart Association defines high blood pressure as a “silent killer,” warning that individuals may suffer from hypertension for years without any symptoms

However, when those symptoms occur, they usually include:

• Headaches
• Red cheeks
• Shortness of breath
• Nosebleeds

Note that those symptoms may not occur until hypertension has reached a life-threatening level.

Fortunately, it’s easy to monitor your blood pressure and detect hypertension before it takes a serious toll on your health. Once the condition is diagnosed, you can work with a doctor to control it.

Why Take CBD Hemp Oil for High Blood Pressure?

In a 2015 study run by scientists from the University of Nottingham Royal Derby Hospital, CBD was shown to be a potent vasodilator, helping in the dilation of blood vessels and increasing blood flow as a result.

Not only that, but CBD oil has a few other properties that may cause a drop in one’s blood pressure, many of which produce this effect indirectly.

Not to mention the lack of side effects associated with using conventional hypertension treatments (more on that later).

How CBD Oil Could Help with High Blood Pressure?

As noted before, CBD has been shown to have remarkable effects on high blood pressure by addressing health problems that cause it to rise. Let’s name a few of them.

CBD Reduces Anxiety

Anxiety and lack of sleep are one of the leading factors linked to high blood pressure.

In 2019, a study was published in The Permanente Journal, where researchers measured sleep and anxiety scores in human subjects. The findings showed that CBD could help ease anxiety-related disorders.

Another study, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2019, CBD proved to have a significant effect on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Finally, a 2018 study from the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2018 concluded that the improved stress response caused by CBD can reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension when they encounter anxiety-inducing situations.

CBD is a Vasodilator

CBD may help improve cardiovascular health by opening the blood vessels and allowing smoother blood flow, which makes it a natural vasodilator.

These properties of CBD were proven in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, and randomized crossover study run by scientists from the Royal Derby Hospital Centre and Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Churchill Hospital in the UK in 2017.

In the study, the team investigated the link between CBD and a drop in blood pressure, concluding that a single dose of CBD oil significantly reduced blood pressure in human volunteers, both at rest and under stress.

However, this study was conducted on healthy volunteers, not on people with hypertension.

CBD Has Remarkable Anti-inflammatory Effects

According to studies from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, CBD is a potent anti-inflammatory compound. Inflammation can be one of the causes of high blood pressure. By eliminating inflammation, CBD could reduce high blood pressure. And since inflammation doesn’t have to occur solely during hypertension, we advise you to take care of a healthy lifestyle regardless of your supplementation.

CBD Modulates Cortisol Secretion

Cortisol is called the “stress hormone” because the body starts to release it under stress. Chronically high cortisol levels may lead to a physical stress response in the body that could elevate blood pressure.

In 1993, Brazilian scientists suggested that CBD modulates cortisol secretion, meaning it can reduce the amount of stress we experience and thus alleviate hypertension. The results were published in the Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research.

CBD Has Hemodynamic Properties

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Frontiers in Pharmacology in 2017 showed that CBD might be used as a potential treatment for cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and stroke.

However, they only found that evidence under non-stressful conditions, indicating that data from human studies on the effects of CBD on the blood flow dynamics is limited.

CBD Balances Neurotransmitters

There are a few types of hypertension, one of which is known as cardiac contractility. In this condition, the heart pumps blood too fast, resulting in excessive cardiac activity.

A 2017 study from the Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research Journal highlighted the importance of neurotransmitters, such as anandamide, in the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system.

According to the data from the study, CBD regulates the reuptake of essential cardiac neurotransmitters that modulates the pumping of blood.

CBD Protects Healthy Cells

In a 2013 study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, researchers showed how CBD improves blood flow in the vessels to maintain proper blood pressure.

Data from the said study provides insight into how CBD protects neurons, which may help prevent any cardiovascular conditions as well as stroke.

The study also suggests that CBD can promote a healthy heart rhythm after ischemic damage, which occurs upon the blockage of arteries. In other words, CBD may improve cardiac function immediately after a heart attack.

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HIGH BLOOD pressure is medically known as hypertension and having the condition puts a person at risk of having a heart attack or stroke. There is a lesser known condition known as secondary hypertension, which can also result in some life-threatening complications. What is it and what are the symptoms?

Blood pressure is the pressure of blood in the arteries which are the vessels that carry blood from the heart to the brain and the rest of the body. A person needs a certain amount of pressure to get the blood moving around the body. Blood pressure naturally goes up and down throughout the day and night and it is normal for it to go up while one is moving about. However, it’s when the overall blood pressure is consistently high, even when resting, that it becomes concerning.

Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure that’s caused by another medical condition.

Secondary hypertension can be caused by conditions that affect the kidneys, arteries, heart or endocrine system.

The condition can also happen during pregnancy.

Secondary hypertension differs from the usual type of high blood pressure which is often referred to simply as high blood pressure.

Primary hypertension has no clear cause and is thought to be linked to genetics, poor diet, lack of exercise and obesity.

Similar to primary hypertension, secondary hypertension usually has no specific signs or symptoms, even if the blood pressure has reached dangerously high levels.

If a person has been diagnosed with high blood pressure, having any of these signs may mean the condition is secondary.

hese include high blood pressure that doesn’t respond to blood pressure medications, very high blood pressure, high blood pressure that no longer responds to medication that previously controlled the blood pressure, sudden-onset high blood pressure before age 30 or after age 55, no family history of high blood pressure and no obesity.

In a study with Singapore Medical Journal, secondary hypertension in adults was investigated.

The study noted: “Secondary hypertension occurs in a significant proportion of adult patients.

“Recognition, diagnosis and treatment of secondary causes of hypertension lead to good clinical outcomes and the possible reversal of end-organ damage, in addition to blood pressure control.

“Left undiagnosed, secondary hypertension can lead to resistant hypertension, cardiovascular and renal complications.

What are the causes of secondary hypertension?

Mayo clinic said: “A number of conditions can cause secondary hypertension.

“Several kidney diseases may cause secondary hypertension and these include diabetes complications, polycystic kidney disease, glomerular disease or renovascular hypertension.

“Renovascular hypertension is often caused by the same type of fatty plaques that can damage the coronary arteries or a separate condition in which the muscle and fibrous tissues of the renal artery wall thicken and harden into rings.

“This condition can cause irreversible kidney damage.”

The greatest risk factor with secondary hypertension is having a medical condition that can cause high blood pressure, such as kidney, artery, heart or endocrine system problems.

Secondary hypertension can worsen an underlying medical condition a person may have that’s causing their high blood pressure.

If a person doesn’t receive treatment, secondary hypertension can also be associated with other medical conditions.

These include damage to arteries, aneurysm, heart failure, weakened and narrowed blood vessels in the kidney, thickened or torn blood vessels and trouble with memory or understanding.

If you suspect you may have secondary hypertension, speak with your GP about the best next steps to take to help better manage the condition.

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New Delhi: Heart diseases are one of the leading causes of death, all around the world. One heart condition is linked with almost all fatal heart diseases and disorders like attacks, stroke, failure, etc, and that is high blood pressure. High BP or hypertension can be caused due to a variety of reasons, some of which include a diet high in salt, high-cholesterol diet, and unhealthy lifestyle. 
Salt-sensitive hypertension is linked with a diet high in salt. According to a new report, immune cells in the kidneys shoot out free radicals, when one suffers from salt-sensitive hypertension. This can lead to an increase in blood pressure and may also damage the kidneys.

These reactive chemicals, also called reactive oxygen species or ROS are a byproduct of our body’s use of oxygen that our immune system uses to eliminate or kill harmful foreign bodies. At high levels, they can lead to various diseases from hypertension to cancer. 

More physical activity and exercise

Studies have shown that exercise and more physical activity is healthy for the heart. When you exercise, your heart rate goes up temporarily. When this happens regularly, your heart becomes stronger and is able to pump blood with less effort. This can help in keeping your blood pressure under control.

Work towards losing weight

Obesity or BMI in an unhealthy range can increase the risk of various diseases, including heart conditions like high blood pressure. Try to lose weight, and fall in a healthy BMI range for your age and height. This will not only help you bring your blood pressure down but will also reduce the risk of other diseases like type 2 diabetes and kidney diseases. A healthy diet and more physical activity are key to losing weight – and both of those can also help to make your heart healthier.

Reduced intake of refined carbs, added sugar

Consuming foods which do not contain refined carbs and added sugar can help to make your heart healthier. According to research, the risk of high blood pressure reduced significantly by a low-carb diet, as compared to a low-fat diet. A low-carb diet can also help you lose weight by the process of ketosis, and also because the consumption of protein and fibre will help to keep you fuller for longer. 

Reduce sodium intake, increase consumption of potassium

For salt-sensitive hypertension, it is extremely important that you reduce your intake of sodium. The consumption of the DASH diet can help in reducing your intake of salt, and therefore, intake of sodium.

Increasing the consumption of potassium can help reduce the effects of salt in your body, especially when you are salt-sensitive. However, excess consumption of potassium can be harmful to people with kidney problems. 

A healthier lifestyle

Making healthy lifestyle choices like increasing mindfulness by meditation, reducing stress, quitting smoking, and eating a healthy diet in general, which avoids the intake of processed foods can help to keep your body healthy overall, and keep your blood pressure under control.

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Today, with the lifestyle and the fast-paced life that we are leading, hypertension, which is also known as high blood pressure, has become a common problem. As per studies, every one in three adults suffers from hypertension. Hypertension, which was initially related to age, has now become common even in the younger generation! Lack of physical activity, stress and other factors cause hypertension, and the situation is increasing at an alarming rate. 

High blood pressure is known as a lifestyle disease which invites multiple other diseases in the long-run. With the hectic lifestyle that we live, it is essential to lead a healthy lifestyle. To keep this ailment at bay it’s essential to know what causes it.

Sedentary lifestyle:

One of the main reasons why people at work develop high blood pressure is the 9-5 desk job. Sitting at a stretch aids weight gain, which leads to high blood pressure. Just like any other muscle, our heart also needs working and pumping, so it’s advisable to get from your desk at intervals and take a walk for 15 minutes. Apart from this, try to add exercise to your daily routine, since this will help you in the long run in keeping your blood pressure in check.

Overconsumption of alcohol:

It’s okay to indulge in some drinks, but making it a habit and drinking regularly can lead to hypertension. Excess alcohol can increase your risk of getting high blood pressure. So, it’s better to drink in moderation and detox your body at least thrice a month. 

Eating too much salt:

Packed food items are high in sodium, and are harmful to the kidneys since they react to them by retaining water. It makes your body end up with too many fluids running through the bloodstream, which increases the blood pressure on your blood vessels. Avoid processed food items and say yes to fresh veggies and fruits. 

Stress:

Stress is something that all of us experience today. Be it stressing over exams or at the workplace, stress causes our adrenal glands to pump out blood pressure increasing hormones. The longer you are stressed, the more you put your heart at risk. To combat stress include meditation in your daily routine. And find something that makes you happy and calm.

Less consumption of veggies:

Consuming a lot of meat and depriving your body of veggies and fruits can make you prone to multiple health problems. It is so because then antioxidants from fruits and vegetables are essential for the functioning of the body. For better heart health, include fresh fruits and veggies to your diet.

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Stress is a normal psychological and physical response to the day-to-day demands of life.  Human body reacts to stress by releasing hormones that increase the blood pressure by increasing your heartbeat and narrowing down your blood vessels, make the brain more alert, cause rapid breathing and tightening of the muscles. Acute stress, the short-term stress goes away quickly, and helps you manage a dangerous or exciting situation. However, chronic stress lasts for a longer period of time, may be weeks or months and makes the body stay alert, even in the absence of an acute cause. Over time, it builds up and exerts an adverse impact on health, and leads to problems associated with blood pressure, heart, immunity, mental health, etc.

Reacting to stress in unhealthy ways such as smoking, overeating or eating unhealthy food, drinking too much of alcohol, and social isolation can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure. Though long-term high blood pressure is associated with heart, blood vessels and kidney problems, frequent temporary spikes in blood pressure can harm your health in a similar way as long-term hypertension. It has been established that relieving stress can lower your blood pressure. In today’s fast-paced world it is important to master stress management as it can be a life-saver. It would help to develop healthy behavior changes that would positively impact your blood pressure and overall health.

Indians have been estimated to consume almost double the recommended intake of salt as evident from a study conducted by the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI). The estimated average salt consumption among Indians is approximately 11 grams per day which is almost double the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended upper intake limit of 5 grams per day. This predisposes Indians to a high risk of developing various cardiovascular disorders including hypertension or high blood pressure. Different kinds of chutneys, pickles, papads and snacks are innate to different states of India.

However, the high amount of salt used for preparation and seasoning of these food items is a matter of concern. Though low sodium salts such as rock salt, pink salt and black salt were native to India, and make a healthy option however, the gradual shift from these native forms to the modern refined table salt has added an unhealthy factor to the diet. The refined table salt is stripped of all the minerals is thus under-nutritious with the only benefit of Iodine that is added during its processing. Owing to its high sodium content, the table salt on intake expands the extracellular fluid volume and increases cardiac output. A high sodium intake also stresses the kidney by excreting more water and less toxic waste.

Substantial clinical evidence demonstrates positive effect of salt intake on the blood pressure. Opting for low salt and low sodium food options, limiting intake of canned and processed foods can help in significantly lowering down the sodium intake. Considering the health benefits to delay or prevent the incidence of hypertension in normotensive people, as well as positive impact on blood pressure lowering in hypertensive people, the efforts to restrict the salt intake is worthwhile and we should strive to achieve it.

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Childhood obesity is a serious medical condition that is affecting adolescents and children alike across the globe and is common in India to. Obese children have bigger builds for their age. Among the reasons for the condition heredity/genes, developmental influences and environmental factors top the list.

According to a study, India has the second highest number of obese children in the world with 14.4 million reported cases. Some factors that have contributed to this is the replacement of home-cooked tiffins with canteen food, aggressive advertising by processed food and beverage brands, as well as a societal shift to screen time instead of actual physical play time.

If not controlled, childhood obesity can increase the risk of hypertension, osteoarthritis, elevated cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, coronary disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, respiratory problems, and so on. Beyond this, obesity also hampers a child’s overall development and contributes to lowered self-esteem and depression. Every two in three obese children will remain obese as adults and are at a greater risk of developing adult lifestyle diseases.

Children do what they see and adapt very quickly to their environment. So it’s important for parents to take the lead and help children incorporate healthier habits at the onset itself, when their child’s malleability scale is comparatively higher. Here are a few tips that will help parents manage a child’s obesity.

Promote nutritious and well-portioned meals

Children are often attracted to processed food, which have refined sugar, fats (especially trans fats) and salt. The consumption of this type of food can have side effects on weight and growth in the long run. It’s important for you to keep an eye on your child’s daily diet, both at home and outside.

A good way to start this is by ensuring that your child enjoys his/her meals and that it’s portioned appropriately for a single person. Incorporating food that is rich in protein and energy in the diet of a growing child is essential. Healthy eating includes consuming more fruit, vegetables, meat, wholegrains, eggs, and nuts like almonds.

It is also advised to limit the consumption of saturated fats and bad cholesterol and instead shift to unsaturated fats and energy-giving food. Timely meals also streamline the routine of the kids to eat when they are hungry and not bored.

Teach your child to snack right

Growing children tend to develop a higher appetite that makes them hungry frequently through the day. In a scenario like this, mothers can incorporate healthy snacking in their dietary habits instead of curbing hunger, which can hamper growth. Nuts, such as almonds, are a great replacement for unhealthy snacks as they may have satiating properties that promote feelings of fullness, which will help keep your kid full between meals and limit their appetite for fried, unhealthy snacks. You can also opt for fruits, oats, makhanas or fresh juices, and inculcate conscious snacking habits in your child from early on, as he/she is likely to follow it forever. This will not just help control weight, but also help in leading a more nutritious and healthy lifestyle.

Let your child choose a form of exercise

Due to academic pressure and distractions caused by TV, mobile phones and video games, maintaining your child’s physical activity can be a challenge. However, a minimum of 60 minutes of physical activity a day is vital in leading a healthy and fit lifestyle. This need not be by making them jog every day or enrolling them at a gym — you can instead work with your child to understand his/her interests and accordingly choose a form of exercise that he/she is likely to enjoy. Whether it’s mandatory playtime for 60 minutes in the park, choosing to learn a form of classical or modern dance, learning to play a sport or cycling — by making your kid join something he/she enjoys, physical activity will be something the child will be looking forward to. These activities will also help build strength and stamina.

Replace ‘screen time’ with ‘family time’

In the past two decades we have seen the influence and hold that technology has on us and how it impacts our daily choices. Television advertisements are aggressively used by brands to attract and persuade consumers for their commercial interests. These days, brands are actively directing marketing tools towards kids since they have the ability to drive indirect sales. In the process, kids are observing these products and developing a drive to own them.

Televisions, gaming rigs and smartphones collectively form roadblocks in the holistic development of children as they drive them away from physical activities and encourage a lazy ecosystem.

Children who spend more than four hours on these tools are more likely to be overweight, develop bad habits, show aggressive behaviour and fear that the world is scary and that something bad would happen to them. A good way to counter this is by setting limits on daily screen time, and instead replacing it with quality family time where parents and kids can come together and play games, talk about themselves, their day and also important news around them. Not only will this help restrict engagement and dependence on the screen, but it will also help kids to become more aware, alert and strengthen the parent-child relationship.

Avoid using food as a punishment or reward

For a lot of parents, food, especially sweets or snacks, become a form of punishment or reward for children. By positioning food as reward for a good deed, we set wrong expectations and unknowingly contribute in building an unhealthy emotional connection with food and feeling good. Beyond this, it also interferes with a child’s natural ability to regulate their eating which can have a negative impact over time. If you do this with your son/daughter, stop right away and instead reward them with things that would help in their growth, like a visit to the zoo, a play date with a friend or a special learning toy.

Support your child, no matter what

Your child’s obesity shouldn’t be a reason for you to feel embarrassed and what you feel or how you treat the issue will have a large impact on how they perceive themselves in the future. While you help them on their journey to a healthier lifestyle, do it for the right reasons — and try not to let materialistic nuances like beauty, or fitting into the ‘cooler’ types of clothes be the motivator here. How you deal with your child’s weight issues will define how he/she perceives himself/herself. Maintaining a positive and supportive approach is the most important and effective way to drive good results.

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New Delhi: Heart diseases are one of the leading causes of death all around the world. A recent study also showed that women are at a higher risk of heart diseases, as compared to men. Women go through various changes in their body, especially during and after pregnancy. Gestational diabetes, which is described as high blood sugar during pregnancy, which goes back to normal levels after the delivery of the baby is a common condition that pregnant women suffer from. High blood pressure is also pretty common in pregnant women. 

A recent study has shown that blood pressure rises more quickly in women than in men. According to the study, this is because women’s blood vessels age more quickly. Apart from these factors, pregnancy can also lead to hypertension. 

Hypertension when expecting a baby – All you need to know

Hypertension during pregnancy can increase the risk for both the mother and the baby. It can cause problems even after delivery of the baby. Therefore, it is important to prevent and treat the condition at the earliest.

According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, USA, it was found that hypertension during pregnancy is experienced by 1 in every 12-17 women, of the age 20 to 44.

What are the causes of high blood pressure during pregnancy?

The first measure to prevent a condition is to understand its causes and risk factors. Factors like obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking, drinking, or autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes can be contributing causes of hypertension during pregnancy. Other factors include age, multiple babies, first-time pregnancy, assistive reproductive technology, or family history of hypertension can also contribute as a risk factor. 

How can high blood pressure be prevented during pregnancy?

For the prevention of high blood pressure during pregnancy, it is important to get the right treatment for blood pressure problems before you get pregnant. If you are planning to have a baby and have high blood pressure, you must consult your doctor for treatment. Even after getting pregnant, it is important to continue treatment during and after the pregnancy as well. 

Apart from treatment, regular exercise or physical activity that ensures a healthy weight can help in preventing high blood pressure before and during pregnancy. During pregnancy, you must keep a check on your blood pressure regularly, and consult your doctor for medicines for the condition, which will not interfere with the baby and its development.

What complications can occur due to high blood pressure during pregnancy?

Hypertension can cause various complications for the mother and the baby, both during and after the pregnancy. The mother can be at a high risk of stroke, kidney damage, and seizures. The mother may also be in need of labour induction, due to high blood pressure. 

For the baby, high BP can lead to preterm birth, which comes with its own set of complications and risks. Low birth weight is also common in babies born to mothers with high blood pressure. The mother’s high BP makes it difficult for the baby to get enough oxygen and nutrients, and the baby may need to be delivered early.

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A new study, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, has suggested that older people may need different recommendations to maintain healthy blood pressure.

More than half of the Americans aged 60 and above have high blood pressure (hypertension) and it is important to maintain one’s blood pressure to prevent life-threatening events, such as heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease.

According to the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines, people who are 65 or above should not have a systolic blood pressure of more than 130 mmHg.

Many older people develop health issues by the time they reach 85. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce estimation, at least 10 percent of Americans will be 85 or older by 2050.

And the new study, which was conducted on more than 1,160 participants, has recommended blood pressure guidelines for individuals who are 85 or above.

Researchers looked at the participants who had experienced heart attacks, strokes, changes in kidney function, cognitive decline, quality of life reduction, and who had died. They found that around 27 percent of them had a history of heart disease, while the majority of them had three or more medical conditions.

The average age of the participants was 84. More than half of them were taking five or more medications for their health issues.

The researchers found that the participants had a systolic blood pressure of approximately 142 mmHg.

Dividing the participants into two groups, the researchers wanted to determine whether aggressively controlling the blood pressure would help lower the risk of strokes, heart attacks, cognitive decline, or death.

One group received “intensive” treatment to bring down their systolic blood pressure under 120 mmHg, while the other group received assistance to keep their blood pressure under 140 mmHg.

The group that achieved systolic levels to 120 mmHg or less had a lower risk of cardiac events and cognitive impairment; however, they had significant changes in their kidney function, some requiring hospitalization due to kidney damage.

The development of dementia in both groups was about the same. The study suggests that reducing the risk of heart disease or cognitive decline may well outweigh the risk of changes in kidney function.

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Can obesity cause aortic stenosis? A new mendelian randomization study argues yes, although experts also assert that the influence of the multiple comorbidities that generally come along with a greater degree of adiposity cannot be ruled out.

“This means that when you have obese people that maybe have shortness of breath, you should be thinking more that they could have aortic valve stenosis, something that could be treated rather than waiting until they get heart failure,” senior author Børge Grønne Nordestgaard, MD, DMSc (Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark), told TCTMD. He added that since no causal link has been established before between obesity and aortic valve stenosis, many physicians might mistakenly think a symptom like shortness of breath, especially when accompanied by several other issues, might simply be a result of their obesity.

“I’m sure many doctors could do better to just put the stethoscope at the heart and listen to it,” Nordestgaard suggested.

Commenting for TCTMD, Marc Dweck, MD, PhD (University of Edinburgh, Scotland), who is not a geneticist but whose research has looked at multimodality imaging of cardiovascular diseases, including aortic stenosis, cautioned that causation is hard to prove.

“It just strikes me that this story is much more complicated than ‘I’ve got a gene. I’m going to get fat. I’m definitely going to get aortic stenosis.’ There’s a lot of off-target confounders in my mind that potentially pollute that supposedly causal link,” he explained. Comorbidities like hypertension and diabetes could play a role, but so too could “the fact that obese patients [are] probably more likely to see a doctor, they’re more likely for someone to listen to their chest, [and] they’re therefore more likely to be diagnosed with aortic stenosis.”

Risk factors associated with incidence of aortic stenosis “aren’t necessarily” the same as those associated with disease progression, with new treatments being dependent on research in the latter field, Dweck continued. “Should I recommend to all my patients with aortic stenosis that they lose weight? Yes, of course, but that’s more because of the other health benefits of losing weight rather than the fact that I think it’s going to slow the progression of their aortic stenosis.”

Allele Scoring

For the study, published in the January 21, 2020, issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Morten Kaltoft, MD, along with Nordestgaard and Anne Langsted, MD, PhD (all Copenhagen University Hospital), included 108,211 adults enrolled in the Copenhagen General Population Study between 2003 and 2015. All participants had measurements of body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio, and waist circumference as well as information on five genetic variants known to be associated with obesity. The researchers created an unweighted allele score of 0 to 10 by counting the number of alleles associated with BMI increase, with scores categorized as 0 to 3 (9%), 4 (19%), 5 to 6 (52%), and 7 to 10 (20%).

Over a median follow-up period of 8.7 years, 1,215 patients had incident aortic valve stenosis and 467 underwent aortic valve replacement (either SAVR or TAVR). Compared with those with an allele score of 0-3, patients with scores of 4 (HR 1.3; 95% CI 1.0-1.7), 5 to 6 (HR 1.4; 95% CI 1.1-1.8), and 7 to 10 (HR 1.6; 95% CI 1.3-2.1) were significantly more likely to have aortic stenosis after adjustment for age and sex.

Additionally, the adjusted causal risk ratio based on the allele score was 1.52 (95% CI 1.23-1.87) for aortic stenosis and 1.49 (95% CI 1.07-2.08) for AVR per 1 kg/m2 increase in BMI. The corresponding hazard ratios were 1.06 (95% CI 1.05-1.08) and 1.06 (95% CI 1.03-1.08).

In sensitivity analyses, the association between higher BMI and greater risk for aortic stenosis was observed among those with the highest waist circumference (men ≥ 101 cm; women ≥ 88 cm) but not among those in with the lowest measurements (P for interaction = 0.07).

“Our causal, genetic findings are novel,” the researchers write. They note that the mechanism behind the link could either be “due to structural changes of the heart or metabolic changes of the obese body,” say but future research will be required to clarify.

“Further investigation of metabolic and atherogenic alterations in the obese body would reveal unknown causal pathways, potentially leading to a treatable trait in this complex disease, with the long-term goal of preventing aortic valve stenosis,” Kaltoft and colleagues conclude. “Although most of the obesity impact on aortic valve stenosis that can be explained is accounted for by the genetic score, this does not preclude potential benefit of intervention.”

Progression Over Incidence

“With aortic stenosis, we don’t have any [preventive] treatments, so any study that improves our understanding of why people develop aortic stenosis is of value and of importance and is moving the field forward,” Dweck commented. However, because the findings demonstrate incidence of aortic stenosis and not progression, he said, “it’s not telling us about actually what we really want to know. . . . We need studies with serial echocardiograms, relating that to obesity, to really tease out that question.”

Specifically, to “establish causality in my mind, you’d need to do a trial where you get people to lose weight and it [shows that] losing weight slows the progression of aortic stenosis. Then I would be convinced completely,” he said.

In an accompanying editorial, Cécile Oury, PhD (University of Liège Hospital, Belgium), and colleagues write that “a major limitation of mendelian randomization relates to possible pleiotropic effects of the genetic variants used, ie, single genetic variants can affect multiple phenotypic traits, which means that this approach may not necessarily provide a proof of causality.” However, they note, the study’s use of allele scoring “contributes to overcome this potential bias, which greatly strengthens their findings.”

Ultimately, these findings “will likely be the basis for other studies intended to refine the causal link between body fat and aortic stenosis risk in populations of various genetic ancestries,” the editorialists conclude.

Dweck agreed on the need for future research in this field. “Establishing the link between obesity and disease progression is crucial,” he said. “You want to see studies where [for] people that were overweight, does their aortic stenosis progress more quickly than people who are less overweight? That’s step one. Step two is: can you slow disease progression in aortic stenosis by losing weight? . . . This is the whole point of looking at the pathogenesis of it, and I think we’re quite a long way from recommending that.”

This study provides added evidence that obesity is linked with an increased incidence of aortic stenosis, Dweck concluded. “That’s an important observation. So, of course, I think it’s probably fair to say that if you avoid being obese, you’re probably less likely to develop aortic stenosis. But to me the more interesting question relates [to] progression. And there are probably stronger reasons for not becoming obese than worrying about your valve.”

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Medical Matters

Have you had your blood pressure checked recently? Well, measurement of blood pressure, as we all know, is a fundamental part of the routine clinical examination – and for good reason.

This is because high blood pressure or hypertension is for the most part a silent condition which, over time, may have far-reaching health consequences. To some extent, an elevated blood pressure may be considered a normal part of ageing.

While below 40, hypertension is uncommon, by middle age prevalence increases to up to 50% and further rises to approximately 75% in those over 65.

The importance of getting your blood pressure checked is emphasised by the fact that in up to half of cases hypertension is undiagnosed. The reasons underlying hypertension are complex and not fully understood but involve changes in resistance to blood flow in our arteries.

This is mediated by dysfunction in the inner lining of the arteries that produce vaso-active chemicals that narrow their calibre.

Atherosclerosis

The effects of high blood pressure are manifold. It significantly accelerates atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, a process whereby they become internally coated with plaque and narrowed.

This can cause damage to the arteries anywhere in the body including in the heart, kidneys, eyes, legs and brain, and can lead to coronary artery disease, kidney impairment, visual problems and poor circulation.

Hypertension is also a major risk factor for stroke and puts strain on the heart which can lead to impaired heart muscle function and heart failure. Damage due to hypertension can also result in further elevation of blood pressure.

In the past, high blood pressure was often not diagnosed until later in life (by which time it may have caused organ damage) or was only picked up incidentally. We know however, that diagnosis and treatment of hypertension even later in life will substantially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and events.

Factors that contribute to hypertension such as being overweight, smoking and taking alcohol in excess should be addressed.”

In fact, hypertension is one of the most important causes of premature morbidity and mortality.

If other risk factors including high cholesterol, diabetes or smoking are present, there is a ‘snowball effect’ whereby the risk increases exponentially. This is why a diagnosis of hypertension should always prompt a complete assessment for other vascular risk factors.

Diagnosis should be made on the basis of at least two elevated blood pressure readings at two different times. If elevated, a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitor may be considered to accurately confirm the diagnosis, particularly if there is a concern regarding ‘white coat hypertension’.

While there are no natural cut-offs for blood pressure, there are well defined treatment targets and even a small drop in blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease. If you have diabetes, heart disease or end organ damage then a tighter control of your blood pressure will be recommended.

Factors that contribute to hypertension such as being overweight, smoking and taking alcohol in excess should be addressed. While not all cases of hypertension are ‘salt sensitive’, most studies show that reducing salt intake (if high) can also modestly lower blood pressure.

Regular exercise has also been shown to have a positive effect. Evidence also suggests that having a healthy diet may lower blood pressure and of course will help in optimising other vascular risk factors such as high cholesterol.

If you have mild hypertension, paying attention to the above factors may remove the need to go on anti-hypertensive medication.

However, in practice at some stage during the course of your hypertension you are likely to require medical treatment. For many with high blood pressure two or more tablets will be required.

Several medications are available to choose from and which one is used will depend on how high the blood pressure is, the presence of other conditions like diabetes or kidney/heart disease and the potential for side effects. Treatments are very effective and usually well tolerated.

If blood pressure is difficult to control, resistant to treatment or unusually high at a young age, then you should be checked out for specific medical causes of hypertension. These account for about 5-10% of all cases and include certain kidney and endocrine disorders.

In summary, high blood pressure is common and rarely gives rise to any symptoms. However, it is a ‘silent killer’ and needs to be checked and monitored closely. If you have not had your blood pressure checked for some time, I strongly advise you to do so!

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High blood pressure or hypertension can negatively affect your health in various ways. It is also known as a silent killer as it can majorly increase the risk of heart diseases. But high blood pressure can be controlled with some simple precautions. You can make changes in your diet and lifestyle to control blood pressure naturally. Some foods and drinks can help in controlling blood pressure naturally. Similarly, a recent study has revealed that long-term consumption of lingonberry juice lowers high blood pressure and improves the functions of blood vessels.

The study explains that at some point in life, many people develop elevated blood pressure, even hypertension and functional disturbances in blood vessels related to low-grade inflammation. In addition to drug therapies, nutrition has a key role in the management of these disorders. Studies have shown that polyphenol-rich food reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Lingonberry, bilberry, cranberry and blackcurrant are excellent sources of polyphenols. “Lingonberry juice is no substitute for medication, but it is a good dietary supplement,” said researcher Anne Kivimaki from University of Helsinki in Finland.

Both lingonberry and cranberry are part of the Vaccinium family of plants, just like bilberries blueberries and huckleberries. In her doctoral thesis, Kivimaki investigated the cardiovascular effects of cold-pressed lingonberry juice, cranberry juice and blackcurrant juice as drinking fluid for 8-10 weeks on genetically hypertensive rats (SHR).

Diluted lingonberry juice significantly lowered high blood pressure while juice that contained more polyphenols improved impaired blood vessel function to the level of healthy vessels, the results showed.

The juice did not prevent the age-related elevation of blood pressure typical to the hypertensive animal strain. Lingonberry juice prevented the expression of genes associated with low-grade inflammation in the aorta. The effect of other berry juices was less marked, showed the findings.

Underlying the effect is probably the reduction of low-grade inflammation as well as mechanisms related to the renin-angiotensin system, a central regulator of blood pressure, and the availability of nitric oxide, a local endothelial vasodilating factor, said the study.

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