Living with Hypertension
Hypertension of high blood pressure has many causes and many treatments. So you should make sure that you have plenty of information from your doctor.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure it is very important to have regular check ups with your doctor. You will need to monitor your blood pressure to make sure that it is stable. You will also need to check your medications and make sure that they are still working properly for you, and that there are no intolerable side effects. You will also need regular blood tests for hidden side effects.
If you are not taking any medications for high blood pressure then it is important to still monitor your blood pressure. Fortunately this can be done at many drug stores with their public machines. However, please bear in mind that these machines are not calibrated very often – so they could easily be wrong! So have your blood pressure checked regularly at a doctors office.
Ask your Doctor – Things you should know
What blood pressure should I have?
The blood pressure numbers we have given elsewhere in this guide are just a guide. Your individual circumstances may be different. You may have various conditions or risk factors that mean you should have a lower blood pressure than suggested. Your doctor will be able to tell you what your blood pressure should be.
How much exercise should I be getting?
Most people with high blood pressure are safe to exercise. However, there are types of hypertension where this may be dangerous. You may also be unfit adn need to increase your exercise gradually. Your doctor will be able to tell you how much exercise is safe and healthy for you.
What is the blood pressure medication that I am on?
It is important for you to know this. Every time you buy an over the counter remedy – even pain killers or cold remedies you will need to tell the pharmacist what other drugs you are taking so that you do not take anything that will make or blood pressure worse. Or take anything that will interact with your blood pressure medications.
What side effects might I have?
You need to know what is expected and what could signify something potentially dangerous.
There are many myths about High blood pressure and a lot of mis-information floating around. Please check with your doctor if you have any concerns. Your doctor will have access to the latest research and drugs to manage hypertension properly.