Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : In this modern age, a combination of stressful work schedules, lack of sleep, and a high-salt diet is continuously and silently raising blood pressure. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a silent killer, but can lead to serious health issues like strokes, heart disease, or memory loss.
As Dr. Deepak Padmanabhan, Senior Consultant in Cardiac Electrophysiology at Narayana Health City, Bengaluru puts it: “Hypertension is like a slow leak in your system. You might not feel it immediately but over time, it results in stroke, heart failure, or memory loss.”
Understanding the the problem could help mitigate its dire outcomes
Most physician agree that hypertension is among the leading killers through strokes and heart attacks. However, it can also trigger Atrial Fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder that increases the risk of dementia by 100%.
Common lifestyle choices are repeatedly pointed out by Dr. Padmanabhan as a major driving factor. “People always tend to point out sugar or cholesterol, but salt is a bigger culprit than you realize. Cutting down on ready meals or sauces can do wonders,” he adds.Stress and Sleep: Underrated Factors that Increase Blood Pressure
Chronic stress is yet another hidden factor. “Endless demands on one’s time at work, noise, digital distractions, and inadequate rest create the perfect storm for increased blood pressure. Without proper recovery, the body cannot rest, and the heart keeps operating in overdrive, which causes damage over time,” explains Dr. Padmanabhan.
5 Lifestyle Changes to Control Hypertension
Consider the following lifestyle changes as advocated by experts for protection of heart and brain:
Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly: Hypertension deals some of its worst blows when you feel fine. Periodic checking ensures that you address any issues earlier rather than later.
Limit Salt: Control intake of packaged products like instant noodles or salty snacks. It is always better when you make the food yourself.
Reduce Stress: Manage your time better, take breaks, breathe, and most importantly, reduce the time you spend staring at screens. Stress relief is crucial.
Sleep More: This might sound obvious, but 7-8 hours of conscious restful sleep is paramount. Ensure that electronics are out of reach and training your body to sleep at the same time every day will improve sleep quality.
Don’t Wait To See A Doctor: Change needs to be made the moment you get readings above 140/90 mmHg. These numbers should not go unchecked because the sooner the better once again.
World Hypertension Day 2025 - an international crusade for action
On May 17, World Hypertension Day 2025 will highlight the saying: "Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer." This slogan has been incorporated in yearly initiatives to foster better blood pressure monitoring and proper management to avert complications.
In India, several activities marked the event. For example, a mega yoga camp in Lucknow sought to spread awareness of hypertension care and the importance of practice of yoga and lifestyle changes.
Read More: One Simple Ten Minute Daily Habit Can Cut Heart Attack Risk by Half
