Summer & hypertension

Summer is often associated with hypertension problems. If the hot and humid weather is making you uneasy, don’t blame it entirely on solar heat. Here’s a whatto-do checklist.

What is Hypertension? It is high blood pressure in the arteries that carry blood from heart to every part of the body. Says Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi: “The blood pressure varies naturally in response to stress and physical work load. Also, if high blood pressure continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may no longer work as well as they should.”

What do the numbers mean? Blood pressure measures two numbers— systolic and diastolic pressure. Says Puja Tewari, Consultant, Fortis Healthcare, Noida: “A diastolic pressure of 80 mmHg and systolic pressure of 120 mmHg is considered normal.”

What are the symptoms? Although some people may experience headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision, most often, high blood pressure presents no symptoms and the affected person is completely unaware of having high blood pressure until something happens that requires medical attention.

What are the treatments? The goal of hypertension treatment is to lower high blood pressure and it can involve various lifestyle changes. Weight Loss: Says Dr Tewari: “Gradual weight loss through modified calorie intake is a good approach.”

Physical activity: Says Dr Chatterjee: “Regular and moderate aerobic exercises can decrease blood pressure. Walk briskly for 30-45 minutes a day, five times a week.” Salt Restriction: Excessive salt intake can contribute to hypertension in some people. Even a modest restriction of salt may decrease blood pressure.

—Manu Kaushik