Does success have a cost? Walk that extra mile and breathe a little less, think of the future and let the present self be in an abyss. Life comes at a price. This dreamy life we all are working for could very well end up in a bedridden dependent state, leaving one helpless and regretful if not with a life-threatening chest pain. The regrets will be many, but one won’t leave this person ever, skipping blood pressure monitoring and management. Smart blood pressure monitoring is as vital and as rare as clean air in this world, where over a billion people are suffering from hypertension. As per a World Health Organization (WHO) report, every third person aged 30-79 years that you meet has hypertension. Let us delve further into the story of this silent killer and how to safeguard ourselves from the same.
Blood pressure is one of the most important and intriguing vital processes. It is the lateral pressure that the blood puts on your blood vessels, ensuring all bodily gas exchanges and transport of nutrients, as well as waste materials, happen without a glitch. So, it won’t be wrong to say it is more important than food and water for your body. But an excess of this basic human requirement is extremely hazardous.
When we talk about blood pressure, there are two types you should know about. For better understanding, let us call them two brothers: systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) is the elder brother. He is stronger and coincides with the heart actively pumping out blood for our body, whereas diastolic blood pressure (DBP) is the younger brother that is seen when the heart ends its high-pressure pumping and is at rest before starting the next cycle.
Normal values of the SBP and DBP explained above are as follows:
Systolic blood pressure: 100 - 140 mm Hg
Diastolic blood pressure: 60-90 mm Hg
So, if your doctor writes your blood pressure as 140/90, they mean that your SBP is 140 and your DBP is 90. WHO defines hypertension (high blood pressure) as when the pressure in your blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). Blood pressure screening ideally starts at the age of 30 years, and you should get it checked right away.
It is extremely important to note that a self-diagnosis of hypertension can do more harm than good and that a doctor must check your blood pressure on multiple occasions before making a diagnosis of hypertension. But once you have been diagnosed and the monitoring becomes the patient's responsibility. Blood pressure machines from any reputable company can be used. Go to your nearest health center to learn how to correctly measure blood pressure at home.
Continuous measurement: Wearable devices can provide continuous, beat-to-beat blood pressure readings without the inconvenience of a traditional cuff.
Various sensor types: Technologies include using multiple PPG sensors on the wrist, ballistocardiography sensors that detect body recoil, and even ultrasound patches or liquid metal sensors.
Improved awareness: Continuous monitoring can help users identify triggers for blood pressure spikes and detect issues like white coat or masked hypertension.
Challenges: Some devices require frequent calibration, and accuracy can be affected by movement, though innovations are addressing these issues.
Sinocare Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor: This blood pressure monitor features easy one-button operation and a clear display, delivering clinically comparable accuracy pressure and pulse precision. It runs on readily available AAA batteries or a type-C port and includes an adjustable cuff. The posture detection, color-coded BP indicators, and irregular heartbeat alerts are additional noteworthy features.
Enhanced features: Many devices include medication reminder alerts and can create a personalized profile of blood pressure trends over time.
AI integration: Artificial intelligence is used to improve the accuracy of readings from wearable sensors, making the data more reliable for clinical use.
Remember not to be in a hurry, take a deep breath, then some sitting rest, at least 5 mins and ideally 30 mins, before measuring your blood pressure.
Food substances such as coffee might derange your blood pressure readings. Avoid them.
Wait for a few minutes and repeat the measurements. In case of inconsistencies, you can take multiple measurements.
Remember, never skip blood pressure medications without consulting your physician, even if your blood pressure readings are within the normal range. Monitoring aims to understand the medication efficacy and identify high blood pressure.
There is no cure but only control for hypertension. You must practice lifestyle modifications in addition to medications prescribed by your doctor. These lifestyle modifications include:
Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables.
Limit sedentary behavior and engage in physical activity (such as walking, running, swimming, dancing, or strength training).
Commit to at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity each week.
Incorporate strength-building exercises at least 2 days a week.
Take action to lose weight if you’re overweight or obese.
Adhere strictly to prescribed medications and maintain regular health appointments.
In addition to the things mentioned above, avoid excessive salt intake (keep it under 2 grams per day). Steer clear of foods high in saturated or trans fats. Do not smoke or use tobacco. Limit alcohol consumption (1 drink per day for women, 2 for men). Also, limit your exposure to air pollution.
Today in your day, this year is for you to own, take charge. With affordable smart devices making preventive care accessible to everyone and extensive research in the subject of blood pressure, hypertension is not an evil you can't tackle. Just remember- tracking today helps avoid costly complications tomorrow.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
MBTpg