HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE (HYPERTENSION)

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE (HYPERTENSION)

High blood pressure can cause many problems, such as heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. Fat people are especially likely to have high blood pressure.

Signs of dangerously high blood pressure:                                     

● frequent headaches

● pounding of the heart and shortness of breath with mild exercise

● Weakness and dizziness

● Occasional pain in the left shoulder and chest

 All these problems may also be caused by other diseases. Therefore, if a person suspects he or she has high blood pressure, they should visit an hospital or perhaps check their blood pressure regularly at home.

WARNING: High blood pressure at first causes no signs, and should be lowered before danger signs develop. People who are overweight or suspect they might have high blood pressure should have their blood pressure checked regularly.

What to do to prevent or care for high blood pressure:

■ if overweight, lose weight        

■ Avoid fatty foods, especially pig fat, and foods with a lot of sugar or starch. Always use vegetable oil instead of pig fat.

■ Prepare and eat food with little or no salt.

■ do not smoke. Do not drink much alcohol, coffee, or tea.

■ Many people can lower their blood pressure by learning to relax