Blood pressure is one of the most important signs of the body. Blood pressure refers to the force blood applies on the blood vessel walls during the relaxation and contraction of the heart muscle.
Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 (systolic/diastolic).
Hypertension
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is generally a chronic condition and is usually associated with few or no symptoms.
A few people with hypertension may experience shortness of breath, headaches, chest pain, vision problems, or nosebleeds.
Complications of high blood pressure include kidney (renal) disease, heart disease, eye damage, hardening of the arteries, and stroke.
An estimated 75 million American adults have high blood pressure. Around 54 percent of these people have their hypertension under control.
About 1 in 3 adults in the United States has prehypertension – blood pressure numbers which are higher than normal – but not yet in the high blood pressure range. Additionally, high blood pressure costs the US economy about $48.6 billion each year.
Hypotension
Hypotension, also called low blood pressure, is blood pressure low enough that the flow of blood to the organs of the body is deficient.
Symptoms may include:
- unsteadiness;
- dizziness;
- blurred vision;
- confusion;
- fainting heartbeats that suddenly become more noticeable;
- nausea.
Extreme hypotension can result in this life-threatening condition. Symptoms include:
- weak and rapid pulse;
- rapid, shallow breathing;
- cold, clammy, pale skin;
- confusion, particularly in seniors.
The most common etiological reasons contributing to hypotension are:
- the use of alpha and beta-blockers;
- pregnancy;
- the use of certain antidepressants, diuretics, drugs prescribed for Parkinson’s disease;
- dietary insufficiencies;
- heart valve associated problems;
- allergic responses;
- endocrine complications;
- severe infections;
- loss of blood due to accidents, injuries, or surgeries;
- dehydration.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries, can also slowly narrow the arteries throughout the body. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other parts of your body.
Atherosclerosis generally does not cause symptoms until it severely narrows an artery.
A few people may have – pain in the arm, leg, and anywhere else that has a blocked artery, chest pressure (angina), fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle weakness in the legs, or confusion, what happens if the blockage affects circulation to the brain.
The main diseases associated with this condition include – carotid artery disease, coronary heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and peripheral artery disease.
Potential risk factors for hardening of the arteries are the following:
- fibromuscular dysplasia;
- connective tissue disorders;
- high levels of triglycerides in the blood;
- lacking physical activities or exercises;
- a diet high in cholesterol, fat, sugar, and salt;
- high sugar levels;
- severe mental/emotional stress;
- high blood pressure;
- high levels of a protein called C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood;
- alcoholism;
- smoking tobacco.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – spiritual meaning and causes
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High blood pressure occurs when you have not expressed your thoughts and emotions for a long time. You are constantly living on the edge of conflict without reaching any conclusion.
Naturally, this keeps you under constant pressure.
Carefully analyze your problems. Be open to solutions and then let these problems go without holding on to any of them.
A conflict will show you where you need to learn to free yourself. This way, you will be able to release the pressure and deal with your problems in a calm manner.
Low Blood Pressure – spiritual meaning and causes
Low blood pressure is an indication that you are trying to avoid coping with problems.
You are deprived of vital energy force, and you can not stand out. It can also indicate an attempt to avoid sexuality.
Look at the forces working within you, without any judgment. Just notice what’s happening and accept yourself with all the illnesses.
If you can be honest with yourself, you will find that you are able to cope with life and its responsibilities. Take a moment to meditate and discover that you are strong and able to enjoy life.
Atherosclerosis – spiritual meaning and causes
Atherosclerosis indicates resistance, tension, stiffness, and a narrow mind.
Apparently, you have become too inflexible both in mind and body, without being aware of it.
Your body is now trying to indicate what you need: openness, flexibility, tolerance, affirmation of life and the surrounding world, and tranquility.
Open up to them and live in peace, both with yourself and the world.
Prevention
No Smoking
Smoking increases both the chance of developing hardening of the arteries and the chance of dying from cardiovascular disease.
In addition, second-hand smoke also increases the risk.
Practice regular moderate exercise
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It offers protection against all-cause mortality, mainly by protection against insulin resistance and hardening of the arteries, and there is strong evidence that physical training is also effective as a treatment for sufferers of type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic heart diseases.
READ MORE: Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis) – Spiritual Meaning
Drink plenty of fluids
When your physical body loses more water than it takes in, it can cause dizziness, weakness, and fatigue.
More importantly, vomiting, strenuous exercise, fever, overuse of diuretics, severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration.
Limit your alcohol intake
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Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which can raise your blood pressure.
Women should limit to only 1 drink per day, and men should have no more than 2.
Reduce your salt intake
Often, when patients with hypertension cut back on salt (due to sodium content), their blood pressure falls.
Aim to eat less than 2.4 grams per day.
READS MORE: Health Benefits Of Chia Seeds
Don’t let stress build-up
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The chemicals your body makes in response to stress make your heart beat faster and harder, and your blood vessels tighten.
Practice daily meditation to reduce your stress levels.
Cut back on caffeine
According to the American Heart Association, individuals with heart disease or hypertension should avoid energy drinks (or other drinks with caffeine) because they could affect their blood pressure.
Get enough sleep
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Individuals who sleep 5 hours or less a night may be at higher risk of developing hypertension or worsening already high blood pressure.
Eating a healthy plant-based diet
To help manage your blood pressure, you should eat plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, seeds (especially flaxseeds and chia seeds), legumes, and whole grains.
More importantly, it is recommended to increase the amount of potassium in your diet.
Featured image credit – Shutterstock
READ THIS NEXT: Eye Disorders – Spiritual Meaning
References http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/ https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hbp/prevention http://www.everydayhealth.com/hypertension/preventing.aspx
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As a founder and chief author at InsightState.com, Bulgarea Candin helps readers on their spiritual journeys. His writings are designed to inspire creativity and personal growth, guiding readers on their journey to a more fulfilled and enlightened life.