Know About Blood Pressure

Why does BP shoot up during winter?

• Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, increasing resistance to blood flow and leading to higher blood pressure.
• Physical inactivity and higher calorie consumption because weddings and festivals during winter may also contribute.

Reduced sweating causes less salt loss from the body, increasing the blood pressure 

Telma vs. Amlodipine: What are the new classes of medicines to manage BP?

• Telma (Telmisartan): An angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that relaxes blood vessels.
• Amlodipine: A calcium channel blocker (CCB) that prevents blood vessel tightening.
• Newer options:
  • SGLT2 inhibitors: Beneficial for hypertension and diabetes.
  • ARNIs (Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitors): Used in specific cases like heart failure.

 Why do some people take Cilacar instead of Amlodipine? What's the difference?

• Cilacar (Cilnidipine): A dual calcium channel blocker that works on both L-type and N-type calcium channels.
• Difference: Cilnidipine reduces blood pressure without causing reflex tachycardia or swelling (common with Amlodipine).

Which medicine reacts better in which case?

• Amlodipine: Effective for severe hypertension but may cause swelling in some.
• Cilnidipine: Better for patients prone to swelling or heart rate irregularities.
• Telma: Ideal for patients with diabetes, kidney disease, or protein in urine.

When should long-term hypertension medicines be reviewed?

Every 3--6 months or earlier if symptoms change.

Regular monitoring is crucial to adjust doses based on lifestyle, age, or complications.

Symptoms of high BP and how to watch for them?

Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or blurred vision.

Regular monitoring can detect asymptomatic spikes in BP.

Should BP be checked regularly? How often?

Yes, For stable BP: Once a week.

For uncontrolled BP: Twice daily (morning and evening).

Keep a record to share with your doctor.

What is the right way to check BP?

• Process:
  • Sit calmly for 5 minutes before checking.
  • Rest your arm on a flat surface at heart level.

Which hand? Both hands initially; use the arm with higher readings for future checks.

Should BP be checked thrice for an average using electronic machines?

Yes, take 3 readings, 1--2 minutes apart, and calculate the average for accuracy.

What is normal BP? Does it vary with age?

• Normal BP:
  • Adults: 120/80 mmHg.
  • Older adults: May tolerate slightly higher (e.g., 130/80 mmHg).

Consult a doctor for personalized targets.

What is the diet and exercise for managing BP?

• Diet:
  • Focus on the DASH diet (low salt, high fruits, veggies, and whole grains).
  • Increase potassium-rich foods (bananas, spinach).
  • Limit caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods.
• Exercise:
  • Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise (walking, yoga) daily.

Which are the activities to avoid?

• Avoid excessive salt intake, alcohol, smoking, and stress.
• Minimize prolonged sitting, extreme cold exposure, and overexertion.