Are you experiencing ‘resistant’ hypertension? Here’s how to handle it

Hypertension or excessive blood pressure is a condition that can lead to various health complications, including heart attacks. It is essential for those diagnosed with high blood pressure to take their medicines regularly. However, sometimes even with prescribed drugs, blood pressure remains elevated. This condition is called resistant hypertension. Factors such as inconsistent medicine intake, incorrect dosage, underlying conditions like kidney diseases, lifestyle choices and the body’s poor response to medications can all contribute to resistant hypertension. In addition to taking medication, paying attention to the following points can help keep blood pressure in check.

1) Reduce salt intake
Individuals with high blood pressure should limit their daily salt intake to less than 1,500 mg. Avoid processed and packaged food and make sure to check the salt content on the labels.
2) Follow the DASH diet
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension or DASH diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and low-fat dairy. It is rich in potassium, magnesium and fibre to help lower blood pressure.
3) Lose excess weight
Losing 5 – 10 per cent of body weight can significantly reduce blood pressure. Belly fat affects the body’s ability to regulate hormones and blood pressure. Regular exercise and calorie control aid weight loss while regulating blood pressure.

4) Avoid alcohol
Excessive drinking can diminish the effectiveness of blood pressure medication. Although it is best to quit completely, those who can’t do it can limit alcohol intake to just one or two drinks a day
5) Stress management
Chronic mental stress raises blood pressure. Doing breathing exercises, meditation, yoga and following certain hobbies can help reduce stress and tension.
6) Exercise daily
Engaging in moderately intensive exercises like brisk walking cycling or swimming for at least 30 minutes helps strengthen the heart, reduce weight and lower blood pressure.

7) Monitoring at home
Regularly monitoring the blood pressure at home using a digital monitor will be helpful. You could then discuss the readings with the doctor to take the necessary preventive steps.
8) Limit caffeine after lunch
Caffeine affects people differently and can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure in some. So, it is better to avoid coffee, energy drinks and black coffee after midday.
9) Quit smoking
Each cigarette raises the risk of high blood pressure and heart rate. Long–term smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of hypertension.

10) Work closely with your doctor
You may need adjustments in your medications or dosages based on how your body responds. It is essential to have periodic check-ups and maintain open communication with your doctor. Hormonal imbalances or kidney conditions should also be checked as they can contribute to high blood pressure.