Heart Health

Low and High Blood Pressure

Maintaining optimal blood pressure is essential for heart health and overall well-being. Low and High blood pressure can have significant impacts on health, so it's crucial to understand the differences, causes, symptoms, and management strategies.

Written by Aisling Moran BSc (Hons)

4th Aug 2022 • 4 min read

What Covered

Difference Between Low and High Blood Pressure

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Blood pressure consistently higher than normal, typically defined as systolic pressure of 130 mm Hg or higher and diastolic pressure of 80 mm Hg or higher.

  • Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Blood pressure lower than normal, often characterized by systolic pressure below 90 mm Hg and diastolic pressure below 60 mm Hg.

Causes of Low Blood Pressure

Causes of High Blood Pressure

  • Obesity

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Unhealthy dietary habits (e.g., high sodium intake, low potassium intake)

  • Stress

  • Genetics and family history

  • Chronic conditions like  diabetes, kidney disease

Symptoms of Low and High Blood Pressure

Low Blood Pressure:

  • Dizziness,

  • Fainting,

  • Blurred vision,

  • Fatigue,

  • Nausea,

  • Cold/clammy skin.

High Blood Pressure:

  • Headache,

  • Shortness of breath,

  • Nosebleeds,

  • Chest pain,

  • Dizziness,

  • visual Changes

Taking Care of Blood Pressure:

  • Diet: Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sodium, sugar, and saturated fats.

  • Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity like walking, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.

  • Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress levels.

  • Medication: Follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding medications to manage blood pressure, if prescribed.

  • Regular Check-ups: Monitor your blood pressure regularly and attend routine health check-ups to detect and address any changes or concerns.

Conclusion

Maintaining optimal blood pressure is crucial for heart health and overall well-being. By understanding the differences between Low and High blood pressure, recognizing their causes and symptoms, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits and management strategies, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their heart health and improve their quality of life.

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