In the United States, nearly half of the population (45%) of adults have high blood pressure and only 24% of those with the condition have it under control. Living a normal life with high blood pressure is possible, but in order to do so, you must properly manage it by doing things like taking medication, exercising, decreasing salt in your diet, and limiting alcohol consumption.
Today, your dedicated McAllen pharmacists at Saenz Pharmacy will dive into what hypertension is, as well as the best time of day to take blood pressure medications.
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is too high. Your blood pressure is considered high when it is above 140/90 and it is deemed severe at 180/120.
If high blood pressure goes untreated, it can cause more serious conditions including heart disease and stroke.
How Do I Know If I Have High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure often does not show symptoms. However, when blood pressure becomes high enough, the following symptoms will arise:
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Nosebleeds
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Changes in vision
People can generally go several years without knowing that they have high blood pressure. That is why it is in your best interest to see a doctor immediately if you believe that one of these symptoms may be related to hypertension.
How is High Blood Pressure Treated?
The key to living a healthy life after being diagnosed with high blood pressure is making changes to your lifestyle along with taking medicine. By eating a healthier diet, working out regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight, you can lower your blood pressure naturally.
Medication is also beneficial for those who suffer from the condition as it allows for blood pressure to be controlled by simply taking a daily pill.
When Should I Take High Blood Pressure Medicine?
Many people believe that taking high blood pressure medicine is best done in the morning to avoid the chance of forgetting.
However, recent studies have shown that those who take the medication before bed can possibly reduce their risk for heart-related complications. Taking blood pressure medicine at night also lets blood pressure stay low throughout the night. Once you wake up in the morning, your blood pressure tends to spike.
It has been shown that by taking the medication at night, you can minimize your likelihood of a cardiovascular-related death by 45%.
Do what it takes to have a healthy heart with Saenz Pharmacy.
To learn more about high blood pressure, what medication is right for you, and the benefits of taking high blood pressure medication at specific times, get in touch with Saenz Pharmacy today.