High blood pressure or hypertension may not be directly associated with mental health disorders, but there still exists a connection. It tends to affect mental health in many ways. However, managing high blood pressure is right within reach. Certain lifestyle changes, such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in physical activity, maintaining a healthy BMI, and quitting smoking, can play a vital role in bringing blood pressure within a healthy range and reducing the risk of serious health complications.
Moreover, it is noteworthy to realize that lifestyle adjustments cannot alone be sufficient, medication may also be required to control blood pressure.
There are various clinical research organizations trying to find a potential solution for hypertension.
Keep on reading the blog to find out the connection between mental health and hypertension and how to manage it effectively.
What is High Blood Pressure or Hypertension?
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is marked by an increased force against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Hypertension occurs when blood pressure exceeds 130/80 mmHg. Ignoring hypertension can pose serious challenges such as straining the heart, arteries, and organs, resulting in serious complications like stroke, heart disease, and kidney problems.
What Causes High Blood Pressure?
The major factors that contribute to high blood pressure or hypertension include:
- Excessive Weight: Being overweight can potentially elevate the risk of hypertension.
- Family History: A family history of diagnosed high blood pressure can increase an individual’s susceptibility to the condition.
- Unhealthy Lifestyle: Maintaining an unhealthy diet with an abundance of junk food is detrimental to health and elevates the risk of high blood pressure.
- Aging: Growing older can also increase vulnerability to high blood pressure.
- Disrupted Sleep Pattern: This is one of the numerous factors contributing to the escalation of high blood pressure.
Also Read: Can An Infection Cause High Blood Pressure?
Connection Between High Blood Pressure & Mental Health
Living with hypertension or being diagnosed with the condition both can induce anxiety; however, it is crucial to realize that, comprehending the connection between them and managing blood pressure effectively, can safeguard both heart and mental well-being simultaneously. Having high blood pressure is not necessarily an indication of a heart attack or stroke.
Researchers have delved into the connection between high blood pressure and believe it can take toll on mental health in ways such as:
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Elevated Stress & Hypertension:
Stress and hypertension are both highly connected. If hypertension is left untreated, it increases stress-related chemicals in the bloodstream. However, stress-related chemicals, in turn, contribute to increased blood pressure, creating a relationship detrimental to mental health.
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Anxiety & Hypertension:
Anxiety can result in avoidance of treatment sometimes. Those with anxiety are less likely to stick to medication and treatment plans, which can lead to uncontrolled blood pressure and further escalation of hypertension.
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Inflammation & Hypertension:
Hypertension may trigger chronic inflammation, influencing mental health negatively. Reason includes chemicals involved in chronic inflammation that interfere with mood-regulating chemicals, affecting mental wellness.
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Cognitive Function & Hypertension:
Due to high blood pressure, the blood flow to the brain is hindered which leads to diminished cognitive function, poor decision-making, memory challenges, and difficulty in maintaining concentration. This can result in poor mental well-being.
The interconnectedness of elevated stress, inflammation, cognitive function, and anxiety with hypertension highlights the need for comprehensive strategies in managing both mental and physical well-being.
Ways to Reduce High Blood Pressure
It is essential to note that changes may complement medical treatment but cannot replace it entirely. Individuals with hypertension or high blood pressure should consult their healthcare providers for personalized advice, and if required, medication. Here are some strategies to reduce high blood pressure with slight changes in regular life activities.
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Regular Physical Activity:
Try to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking. Exercise is not only helpful in terms of high blood pressure but also aids in management of weight, strengthening the heart, and reducing stress.
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Reducing Salt Intake:
One way to effectively manage high blood pressure is by reducing salt intake to enhance heart health and lower blood pressure. Read food labels as much as possible, opt for low-sodium versions of food, and avoid adding salt. Replace salt with flavorful herbs for added taste.
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Adding Potassium to Diet:
Increasing potassium intake in regular life can help regulating heart rate and counteracting sodium effects. Consuming potassium-rich foods such as leafy greens, dairy, fish, beans, nuts, fruits, and seeds can really help with the management of high blood pressure.
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Limiting Alcohol Consumption:
Excessive alcohol can result in spikes in blood pressure and may reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medications. However, limiting alcohol consumption gradually to fewer drinks per day can help lower the risk of high blood pressure.
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Reducing Stress:
Managing stress through healthy mechanisms can prevent the elevation of blood pressure. Techniques include reframing mindset, practicing gratitude, avoiding stress triggers, and incorporating moments of joy and relaxation.
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Monitoring Blood Pressure at Home:
Regularly monitor your blood pressure at home with a reliable blood pressure monitor. Keep a record of your readings and share them with your healthcare provider during checkups. This proactive approach not only helps track progress but also facilitates adjustments to treatment plans and the timely detection of potential complications. Prioritize your well-being with informed self-monitoring.
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Nurturing Mental Well-Being with Support:
Opening up to friends and family or joining a support group to discuss experiences and concerns surrounding the condition. Expressing your feelings not only offers emotional support but also aids in coping with the challenges that come with hypertension.
However, it is important to seek advice from healthcare professionals for additional guidance.
Outlook
Hypertension can take a negative toll on mental health hence; it is essential to receive an early diagnosis. However, with proper treatment, high blood pressure can be managed effectively, safeguarding both heart and mental health. Moreover, considering hypertension clinical trials near you may result in finding a potential treatment to control high blood pressure and improve your overall mental and physical health.