High Blood Pressure | Life Health Fitness

Can Melatonin Lower High Blood Pressure?

Hypertension is one of the most common age-related health problems and one that raises the risk of a number of serious health problems, including cardiovascular disease and stroke. In fact, high blood pressure can damage every organ in the human body by injuring the blood vessels that carry nutrient and oxygen to them. There’s no shortage of prescription medications that lower blood pressure, but most have side effects. What if there were a natural solution for lowering high blood pressure?

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone released by the pineal gland, a tiny gland located in the brain. The main function of melatonin is to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Because of its role in regulating sleep, a growing number of people take a melatonin supplement as a sleep aid and to prevent jet lag. Melatonin is also a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals, a common cause of cell damage. Melatonin production goes up in the evening and peaks between 2:00 a.m and 4:00 a.m.

Sleeping in a completely dark room is important as exposing your eyes to light at night can shut down melatonin production. Some studies link working night shifts with a higher risk of developing some forms of cancer. The theory is that working at night under artificial light lowers the body’s level of melatonin. Since melatonin regulates a variety of hormones that impact human health, this disruption may increase the risk of some forms of cancer.

Melatonin and Blood Pressure

Can melatonin lower blood pressure too? In one study carried out by Harvard Medical School, men who took a low-dose melatonin supplement before bedtime experienced a significant reduction in nighttime blood pressure. The drop in blood pressure was an average of 6 mm Hg diastolic (pressure in the blood vessel wall when the heart is relaxing) and 4 mm Hg systolic (pressure in the blood vessel wall when the heart is beating). For people with mild hypertension, this decrease in pressure may be enough to avoid prescription medications.

One caveat is the study looked at nighttime blood pressure. It’s not clear whether a lower blood pressure is sustained throughout the day. The study showed that melatonin supplements may be beneficial for people who experience nocturnal hypertension, a nighttime rise in blood pressure. Another benefit is melatonin helps some people sleep more soundly and this could help people with insomnia better control their blood pressure.

The blood pressure lowering effects of melatonin may extend to women too. In one small study, researchers gave 9 women a 3 milligrams melatonin supplement before they went to sleep. They also experienced a reduction in blood pressure.

How Does Melatonin Lower Blood Pressure?

The mechanism by which melatonin causes a drop in nighttime blood pressure isn’t clear. One possibility is the antioxidant effect of melatonin. We now know that oxidative damage and inflammation plays a role in the development of cardiovascular disease. Ongoing inflammation can also damage blood vessels and lead to abnormal endothelial function.

The endothelium is the lining of the blood vessel. It produces a variety of chemicals that cause blood vessels to relax or constrict as well as chemicals that impact blood clotting. Melatonin, by reigning in oxidative stress and inflammation, may improve how blood vessels function by causing the blood vessel to relax. This, in turn, would lower blood pressure.

Are Melatonin Supplements Safe?

As with any medication or supplement, it’s best to consult a physician before taking melatonin. However, it appears to be safe for most people. Side effects are typically mild. Some people experience fatigue or brain fog the morning after taking melatonin, especially if they haven’t taken it before. Supplements also vary in their purity and the quantity of melatonin they contain.

When independent testing firms analyzed a variety of commonly available supplements, they found some were formulated with more or less of the ingredients listed on the bottle. Surprisingly, analysis of some herbal supplements showed they contained none of the active ingredients. Supplements aren’t regulated in the same way medications are, so it’s buyer beware. Do your research!

Conclusion

Melatonin shows potential promise for lowering nighttime blood pressure, but more research is needed. If melatonin can help control nocturnal hypertension, it may help lower mortality, as people who experience a nighttime rise in blood pressure are at higher risk of cardiovascular events and premature death.

Interestingly, more recent research suggests melatonin may play a role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, independent of its impact on blood pressure. In fact, there’s a clinical trial going on now to look more closely at the impact of melatonin supplements on blood pressure and other functions such as platelet activity and insulin response.

Melatonin supplements have other potential benefits as well, particularly for people who suffer from insomnia. Some people fall asleep more quickly and sleep more soundly when they take a melatonin supplement. That’s important since inadequate sleep and poor sleep quality are linked with a higher risk of a variety of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

But, as always, consult with your physician. Supplements, including melatonin, can interact with medications and with other supplements as well. Whatever you do, keep monitoring your blood pressure. High blood pressure is strongly linked with increased mortality and it’s a health condition that can respond to lifestyle changes, although medications are sometimes needed.

References:

The American Journal of Medicine. Volume 119, Issue 10, October 2006, Pages 898-902.

Curr Opin Lipidol. 2016 Aug; 27(4): 408-413.

ClinicalTrials.gov. “Effects and Mechanisms of Melatonin on Blood Pressure, Insulin Resistance, and Platelets”

National Institutes of Health. “How is the body affected by sleep deprivation?”

ConsumerLab.com. “Testimony of Tod Cooperman, MD, President, ConsumerLab.com to Senate Special Committee on Aging – Subcommittee on Dietary Supplements”

Scoliosis. 2007; 2: 6. Published online 2007 Apr 4. doi: 10.1186/1748-7161-2-6.

American Association for Cancer Research. “Linking Night Shift Work to Cancer Risk”

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Risks for High Blood Pressure

You might be at risk for hypertension without even knowing it. Even if your blood pressure is normal it is still important for you to know if you are at risk. High blood pressure can creep upon you like a thief in the night because there is no symptom. As you blood pressure increases gradually you won’t feel any different until its in the critical range forcing you to seek immediate attention.

High blood pressure has caused deadly strokes, heart attacks and kidney failure. Its not quite clear what causes high blood pressure but the natural aging process causes our arteries to stiffen, therefore by the time we are in our 60s most of us will have high blood pressure. However, this does not have to be the case if you know your risk factors and start taking immediate measure to reduce the possibility of being a victim of high blood pressure.

In the medical community doctors use “risk factors” to determine the chances of you developing a condition. This is why they weigh you and ask you about your family history and habits such as drinking, smoking and exercise. They use this information to make an educated guess based on research about potential problem that might occur in the future. This way, they can determine the appropriate treatment protocol and you can make the necessary life style modification.

Hypertension can be classified as either primary of secondary. The majority of people with high blood pressure have primary high blood pressure. Primary high blood pressure is associated our genes and lifestyle. Secondary hypertension is associated with a medical condition. If you are can modify your lifestyle by abstaining from the culprit agents you blood pressure can be normal. Likewise if your medical condition is manage properly then your blood pressure can be normal and you might not need medications.

Your kidney plays a major role in managing your blood pressure because it regulates water and sodium. When it is not working properly your blood pressure will be affected. High blood pressure can be one of the first sign of kidney disease. Conversely it can also cause damage to the kidneys. Therefore your physician will probably check your blood, urine and structure of your kidney to assess damage or disease. Unfortunately, in the late stages of kidney failure, they will stop working and you will need dialysis until you get a kidney transplant.

If you do not have any of the primary risk factors for high blood pressure, you are younger than 30 or older than 55, you present with extremely elevated high blood pressure, blood pressure medication is no longer working or just does not work at all then your doctor might suspect you have secondary high blood pressure.

Primary Hypertension

Excess sodium
Inadequate potassium
Physical inactivity
Stress
Low levels of Vitamin D
African American
Smoking
Alcohol

Secondary Hypertension

Polycystic kidney disease – cysts present on kidney preventing it to work
Sleep Apnea– absence of breathing while asleep causes decrease oxygen in the blood which in turns damages the blood vessel
Glomerular Disease– the kidneys are unable to filter water and waste properly
Renovascular High Blood Pressure– the artery leading to kidneys are damage and the function of the kidney is impaired
Cushing Disease– too much cortisol is produce by a tumor on the adrenal glands or side effect of long term use of corticosteroids that are use to treat some conditions
Aldosteronism– too much aldosterone that interferes with sodium, potassium and water excretion by the kidneys
Pheochromocytoma-a tumor that releases hormones that can cause high blood pressure
Thyroid Disease– high or low thyroid function causes abnormal thyroid hormone secretion. Both condition can cause high blood pressure
Diabetes-blood vessels in the kidneys are damage and blood flow is impaired result kidney function
Hyperparathyroidism-an increase in calcium secretion by the parathyroid gland result in calcium interacting with the blood vessels making them stiff
Coarctation of the aorta-a congenital anomaly causes the aorta to become narrow which results in a higher force to push blood around the body
Obesity-excess weight equals excess blood circulating through the body which place added pressure on the arteries
Pregnancy-one or more primary risk factor present
Medications and Supplements

To close, if you ever wonder if you are at risk for high blood pressure then this list should give you a good idea where you stand. Primary high blood pressure can be prevented if you make some adjustment primarily in what you eat. Not only will you see an improvement in your blood pressure you will also loose some weight.

What Foods Can Lower Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a leading health problem across most modern societies. Approximately a third of adults in the U.S. have significantly high blood pressure which threatens their well-being, while a further third have blood pressure readings lying above the ideal range.

Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to several life-threatening health problems. It puts a heavy strain on the heart, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease including heart attacks, and it also contributes to kidney disease and strokes. In the U.S. alone it’s estimated that high blood pressure is a primary or major cause of over 1,100 deaths each day.

Although in some cases genetics play a part in determining who will develop high blood pressure, this in not the case for most of the population with hypertension. Much of the danger is linked to lifestyle factors, with diet making a huge contribution. A poor diet can be a direct cause of hypertension, while a healthy diet will not only reduce the risk, but can help control the symptoms if the condition is already established. So what should you consider if you want to eat in a way that encourages lower blood pressure?

The American College of Cardiology states that diet modification that mimics the DASH diet plan can lower your blood pressure my approximately 11 mm Hg. At first this might not seems like a significant reduction but if a 10mm Hg reduction in blood can prevent you from adding another blood pressure medication then it something worth exploring. It all starts with evaluating your current food choices and modifying where necessary.

Foods to Avoid

Salt is far and away the most dangerous dietary cause of high blood pressure. Too much salt in your body reduces you kidneys’ ability to flush out excess fluids, and the resulting high levels of water in your system directly raise blood pressure. While a certain amount of salt is necessary for life, the average western diet contains more than twice the recommended maximum amount.

While it’s a good idea to reduce the amount of salt you add to meals at the table, the majority of the salt you eat will probably be in the form of highly processed foods. Trying to eat fresh ingredients wherever possible is usually far more effective in reducing your salt intake than sprinkling a little less on your food at mealtimes.

Also, foodstuffs which are high in saturated fats should be avoided. These fats raise your blood’s cholesterol levels, which can lead to deposits building up in your veins and arteries, forcing your blood through a smaller space and so raising your blood pressure.

Foods to Eat More Of

However, controlling blood pressure isn’t all about restricting your diet. There are several foods which can have positive effects if you eat more of them.

– Foods high in potassium can help your kidneys filter out excess sodium in your blood, therefore reducing salt’s harmful effects. Good sources of potassium include leafy greens, sweet potatoes, wild salmon, beans, and bananas.

– Fiber plays a vital role in reducing cholesterol levels in your blood, yet most people don’t consume enough of it. Foods that are rich in fiber include most types of grains and cereals, beans of all kinds, berries, leafy vegetables, and nuts and seeds.

– Magnesium is thought to have a modest influence on lowering blood pressure, particularly in older men. This vital mineral is found in many of the same foods as potassium, as well as in fruits including apples and figs.

– Garlic has long been held to help purify the blood and improve circulation. However, much of the benefit is thought to be lost through cooking, so if the prospect of consuming raw garlic is worrying, consider taking it in capsule form.

In essence, the best way to control blood pressure through your diet is to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and avoid highly processed foods as much as possible. If you choose to eat meat and dairy, then opt for lean and low-fat versions, and try to reduce the amount of salt you add to food both in cooking and at the table.

Eating well may not be a 100 percent guarantee that you’ll avoid high blood pressure, but of all the factors under your control, it’s by far the one with the most influence, and a good diet will benefit your health in many other areas along the way.

Does Coffee Cause High Blood Pressure?

Get your Brew On

Is a trip to Starbucks part of your daily ritual? It is for many people, male and female alike. Fortunately, recent studies show drinking coffee has health benefits. For example, coffee drinkers enjoy a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes, and gallstones. Some studies even link coffee consumption with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. But what if you have high blood pressure? Coffee contains caffeine and one concern is the caffeine in coffee may cause a rise in blood pressure. What does science say about coffee drinking and hypertension? After all, it could be the substance that is preventing from reaching your blood pressure goal.

How Coffee Affects Your Heart and Blood Vessels

When you drink a cup of caffeinated coffee, it stimulates your sympathetic nervous system, also known as the fight-or-flight system. This is the division of your nervous system that speeds up your heart rate and gets you ready to fight off a predator or escape! That comes in handy in certain situations.

One reason coffee wakes you up and makes you more alert is because it elicits this fight or flight response. However, if you’re a habitual coffee drinker, you become somewhat desensitized and feel less jittery and hyped up unless you drink more.

The caffeine in coffee also causes blood vessels to narrow briefly after you drink it. When your blood vessels clamp down, it causes a temporary rise in blood pressure. Usually, this effect is brief. The rise in blood pressure is more pronounced if you aren’t a regular coffee drinker. In fact, one study found that getting the caffeine equivalent of 1.5 to 2 cups of coffee raised blood pressure by 8 mmHg (systolic) and 6 mmHg (diastolic).

The bump up in blood pressure lasts for up to 3 hours after drinking coffee. For most people, this transient increase in blood pressure isn’t dangerous. However, it could be a problem for people who have poorly controlled hypertension.

Can Coffee Raise Blood Pressure Longer Term?

If you drink a lot of coffee, especially if you’re not a regular coffee drinker, it could trigger a rise in stress hormones, including cortisol and adrenalin. According to some studies, cortisol can remain higher for up to 12 hours after drinking large amounts of caffeine. Cortisol causes the body to retain sodium and this leads to a more persistent rise in blood pressure. If you combine excessive coffee intake with other factors such as lack of sleep or stress, coffee may cause a sustained rise in blood pressure. On the plus side, coffee drinkers develop some tolerance over time and cortisol levels don’t rise as much when they drink their daily brew.

Coffee and the Risk of Developing Hypertension

The fact that coffee causes a short-term rise in blood pressure sounds ominous, especially if you’re at risk of developing hypertension due to family history. But consider this. Studies also link consumption of coffee (4 or more cups daily with a lower risk of developing high blood pressure.

Why might this be? It may relate to the other components in coffee. Coffee is the number one source of antioxidants in the American diet due to its high polyphenol content. Polyphenols have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and may counter the blood pressure raising effects of the caffeine.

In fact, some studies show that polyphenols improve blood vessel function. One consequence of this is the arteries that carry blood open up wider and blood pressure drops. Remember, you become somewhat tolerant to the effects of caffeine, so it’s less likely to trigger a rise in blood pressure after you drink it for a while. However, you don’t develop tolerance to the beneficial effects of the polyphenols in coffee. Therefore, once you become a habitual coffee drinker, your blood pressure can drop to the effects of the polyphenols in coffee.

The Bottom Line

Caffeine causes a temporary rise in blood pressure in some people. This effect lasts several hours before blood pressure returns to normal. Some people who have poorly controlled hypertension may have a sharper or more sustained rise in blood pressure. There needs to be more studies looking at this.

Also, if you consume excessive amounts of caffeine and experience a rise in cortisol, blood pressure can remain high for up to 12 hours afterward. But, as a whole, drinking coffee doesn’t increase the risk of developing high blood pressure and may modestly reduce the risk. The best way to see how your blood pressure responds to caffeine is to take it every hour for a few hours after you consume a few cups of coffee and record the values. Save them and show your physician on your next visit.

There are also genetic differences in how quickly people break down caffeine and this can impact blood pressure as well. So, know what your blood pressure readings are when you drink caffeinated beverages, including coffee. Fortunately, they’re easy to monitor!

References:

Northwestern Medicine News Center. “Coffee Consumption Linked to Lower Risk of Death”

HealthLine.com. “Does Coffee Raise Your Blood Pressure?”

Expert Review of Cardiovascular Therapy. Volume 15, 2017 – Issue 3.

Psychosom Med. 2005; 67(5): 734-739.doi: 10.1097/01.psy.0000181270.20036.06.

Medscape Family Medicine. “Higher Coffee Intake Tied to Lower Mortality Risk”

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Does Sleep Apnea Cause High Blood Pressure?

Do you need a sleep study?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a chronic condition that manifests itself in your activities of daily living without you realizing it. If you have high blood pressure, constant daytime sleepiness or your energy level is low sleep apnea might be the culprit agent. However, not everyone who experiences these symptoms requires a sleep study.

Facts about Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

• Obesity is major risk factor

• Affects 10% of women and 25% of men (Weeks Jr).

• Rates are increasing due to increase rate of obesity

• 40-60% of patient with cardiovascular disease is affected by OSA

• Gold standard treatment is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)

Don’t Hold Your Breath

When you are hospitalized and connected to monitoring equipment, sleep apnea can be easily be observed just by looking at your respiratory rate, pulse rate and oxygenation as you sleep.

At home your loved one can look at the rise and fall of your chest and take note of when the apnea episode occurs. This information can be shared with your doctor but you still need a sleep study.

But the best way to diagnose sleep apnea is via a sleep study. In addition, the severity of OSA can also be determined. Sleep apnea occurs when you have frequent episodes of breath holding (apnea) while you sleep. Your airway collapses, narrows and your respiration stops. This can last until you gasp for breath then wake up.

If not treated OSA can become severe and decrease the quality of your life. In addition, you have a higher chance of having heart disease, stroke, and dementia (Force). There has been an increase rate of motor vehicle accident due to sleepiness possible associated with OSA.

Sleep in Peace

Not all sleep is good sleep, therefore you might need a sleep study to determine if you are having good quality sleep. A sleep study is a painless, needle less, incision less test done in a sleep lab to analyze the quality of your sleep. This can be in a hospital or sleep center. During the procedure you are connected to monitoring devices that tracks and record activities while you are asleep. Activities such as leg movement, rapid eye movement, snoring, oxygenation, respiration amongst other things are tracked, recorded and analyze to determine if you sleepy quality is good. Find out below if you should talk to your health care provider about considering a referral for a sleep study.

Snoring

If you are a heavy snorer then you may want to consider being tested for sleep apnea through a sleep study. Most people only know if they snore or not through reports of a sleep partner, roommate or house mate. Some people snoring can be so loud that it wakes up the entire house. Although snoring alone is not a diagnosis of OSA, snoring and being overweight along with other symptoms might be a good indicator that OSA is imminent.

Unexplained fatigue, non-restorative sleep, or daytime sleepiness

There are numerous reasons for being tired including sleeping with at snorer or being the same house with a snore. From low iron levels to busy lifestyles or even depression, it is not uncommon to complain of fatigue. However, if you feel your life is not particularly stressful and you live a healthy lifestyle but are still fatigued, you may want to consider having a sleep study to further assess for sleep apnea. Speak to your health care provider to ensure other concerning causes are not to blame, such as abnormal blood counts or thyroid issues.

Chronic insomnia

Do you frequently wake up in the night tossing and turning? Although there are a number of causes for insomnia, such as stress and anxiety, sleep apnea could be the cause. Heavy snoring can wake you up regularly throughout the night. If you or your partners have noticed that you snore heavily, you may benefit from a sleep study for further assessment. Some patients state they feel themselves stop breathing and gags for air. This might be you too.

Restless legs

Are you aware that your legs wiggle and kick throughout the night? A partner is often the one to report that his/her partner is frequently moving his/her legs at night. If this is the case, there may be an underlying diagnosis of sleep apnea present. Leg movements can be monitored during a sleep study. If a condition called restless leg syndrome is identified, medication may be recommended.

Hypertension

High blood pressure, or hypertension, can actually be associated with sleep apnea. This is often questioned when an otherwise healthy person following a healthy lifestyle with no family history of hypertension is found to have elevated blood pressure readings. Undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure. Our bodies need rest to function normally. Chronically interrupted sleep can stress the body and cause hypertension.

Cognitive Decline

Research suggests that there might be a correlation between OSA and cognitive impairment in adults and Alzheimer’s . This happen because intermittent periods of low oxygen and high carbon dioxide in the blood going to the brain can cause metabolic changes in the brain. Symptoms of dementia such memory loss can be observed.

Are You CPAPing Tonight?

Some people may avoid talking to their health care providers about a sleep study because they are not fond of how sleep apnea is managed. Sleep apnea is typically managed through wearing a face mask at night that is attached to a tube and small machine to provide continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). With advances in management techniques, such as oral devices or mandibular advancement devices, sleep apnea can be managed more comfortably. Lifestyle modifications may also be recommended, such as weight loss, certain sleep positions, and avoiding alcohol.

If you are normotensive CPAP can reduce your systolic blood pressure by 2 to 3 mm Hg. If you are hypertensive CPAP can lower blood pressure 6 to 7 mm Hg (McEvoy et al.). Therefore, it is well worth the effort.

Proper management of sleep apnea helps prevent ongoing fatigue and some chronic conditions, particularly related to cardiovascular disease. If you or someone you know is worried that they might have obstructive sleep apnea, speak to a health care provider to decide if a sleep study is warranted.

Works Cited

Force, US Preventive Services Task. “Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults.” JAMA (2017): 407-417.

Peppard, P. E., Young, T., Barnet, J. H., Palta, M., Hagen, E. W., & Hla, K. M. (2013). Increased prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing in adults. American journal of epidemiology, 177(9), 1006-1014.

McEvoy, Doug R. “CPAP for Prevention of Cardiovascular Events In Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” The New England Journal of Medicine (2016).

Weeks Jr, Kenneth D. “The Basics of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” American College of Cardiology (2012).

Force, US Preventive Services Task. “Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults.” JAMA (2017): 407-417.

McEvoy, Doug R. “CPAP for Prevention of Cardiovascular Events In Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” The New England Journal of Medicine (2016).

Rosenzweig, I, et al.. “Sleep Apnea and Dementia | Ten Points to Remember.” Lancet Respir Med 14 April 2015.

Weeks Jr, Kenneth D. “The Basics of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” American College of Cardiology (2012).

(Rosenzweig, Glasser and Leschziner) Sleep Apnea and Dementia | Ten Points to Remember

Are Home Blood Pressure Monitors Accurate?

Should You trust Your Automated Blood Pressure Monitor?

Several studies have shown that automatic blood pressure monitors can yield inaccurate results in and out of the hospital setting. Blood pressure management, whether low, normal or high or is determined by measurements obtained using automated devices, therefore it’s critical that the devices are functioning as expected.

However, just as the reading is reliable as the equipment, the same can be said for the operator of the device. If there is uncertainty of that measurement is wrong then both the equipment and operator should be validated.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in 2016 showed that automated blood pressure could give very inaccurate readings even though they are easier to use than manual blood pressure. Similarly, an article published in Harvard Health interviewed several doctors who spoke to the inconsistencies of automated blood pressure monitors.

In the Journal of Family Practice (2000), Durme concluded that automated blood pressure equipment results in pharmacies were not accurate. This was more evident in patients that had really small arms or really large arms. When compared to manual pressure, the machines were wrong.

As more and more people are being diagnosed with high blood pressure, there has been a need for public health education regarding how to take your blood pressure the correct way. Because of this, there are numerous studies and articles pointing to the dangers of inaccurate blood pressure readings that might be attributed to the monitors. However, blaming the inaccuracies only on the monitor can be a missed opportunity for public education on how to take blood pressure correctly and the possible causes of wrong reading that can be corrected once identified.

Sphygmomanometers

A sphygmomanometer is a medical device used to measure blood pressure.

Manual blood measurement using an aneroid sphygmomanometer and stethoscope is the gold standard in healthcare for checking blood pressure. However, they are not ideal for home usage. Besides, unless you are a contortionist, it is extremely challenging to take your own blood using the manual method.

On the other hand, an automated blood pressure machine displays your blood pressure reading digitally with the touch of a button. They are very easy to use. But just like any other equipment they can malfunction and are only reliable if they are calibrated and instructions are followed per manufactures recommendation.

It is important to remember if you are using an automated blood pressure monitor, that you purchase one that is validated by a company that checks it for safety and accuracy before being placed on the market for use in and out of the hospital setting. Association for the Advancement of Medical Instruments (AAMI), British Hypertension Society (BHS), and the European Society of Hypertension (ESH) all have safety protocol for medical equipment. Look for monitors approved by these companies.

There might be a possibility that you might be the reason for the inaccurate measurement. Therefore before giving up on your automated blood pressure machine review the correct way to take your blood pressure at home. In the meantime here are some immediate actions you can try first.

Possible Causes for Inaccurate Blood Pressure Reading

Can You Feel Irregular Heartbeat In My Arm

If you have an irregular heart rhythm such as Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib), then you might have inaccurate blood pressure reading. Since the cuff need to pick up blood flow, this can be very difficult to pinpoint with an irregular heart rhythm. Your doctor will be able to guide you on how to take your blood pressure with an automated machine. The manual approach is ideal for patients with Afib.

If the Cuff Doesn’t Fit

If the automatic or digital blood pressure monitor that you are using has the wrong cuff size,, then the reading is likely to be wrong too. This is because it may be too loose or too tight and would not be able to get an accurate reading from the deep-seated blood vessels in the arm. Too tight blood pressure gives you a higher reading. Too loose blood pressure cuff gives you a lower reading. Make sure you measure your arm and check the manufacturer recommendation for cuff size.

Stay Still and Don’t Move

It’s important to relax before and during your blood pressure measurement. No texting, talking laughing, crying or watching TV. Nothing that causes stress, even if it is good stress. It only takes a minute to check it. If you move it takes longer . Have you ever had the cuff squeeze tighter and tighter because you moved? This is because when you move it is difficult for the bladder in the cuff to detect the blood flow in your brachial artery. Therefore it squeezes even tighter and the reading will most likely be high. I have seen this happen too many times and it can be painful. So don’t move because it will only keep on squeezing.

Incorrect Arm Position

Arm position can interfere with blood pressure reading. Arm position above your heart can cause your blood pressure to be lower than normal. Arm positioned below your heart can cause your blood pressure to be higher than normal. Therefore make sure you arm with the cuff is at the level of your heart. If the cuff is not positioned correctly above the bend of the arm right above the brachial artery, then the results are likely to be erroneous. It is essential to practice with a medical professional to get the positioning right.

Broken Equipment

One obvious and overlooked reason why an automated blood pressure machine might be giving a wrong reading is that it was not calibrated or its broken. A machine that comes from a reputable company will have instructions on when and how to calibrate it. Follow the same safety protocols they use in clinical settings to ensure they have equipment that are working correctly. After all the equipment is part of a myriad of tools they use to help diagnose a patient.

If you ever have the opportunity to check out the equipment at the doctor’s office, you should look for a sticker with a date that indicates when it was the last checked. Hospitals have their equipment checked at least two times a year . Any equipment that shows any possible sign of being broken is take out of service immediately. You should do the same with your equipment.

The equipment at the pharmacy should also have a sticker with the date it was last checked. If you cannot locate one then ask the pharmacist. If there is no record of calibration then do not use it.

If hospitals rely on automated blood pressure measurement, then you can too. Consult with your physician regarding any abnormal reading. Stop using the equipment and check with the manufacturer if you suspect it not working.

The Correct Way To Take Your Own Blood Pressure at Home

Checking your own blood pressure comes with lots of great benefits. Studies show that home monitoring of your blood pressure is a critical step towards achieving blood pressure control. This is because whenever you find that your blood pressure is outside the acceptable range, you are able to seek medical attention quickly.

The option of having your blood pressure checked outside of the clinical setting also reduces elevated blood pressure associated with white coat hypertension. White coat hypertension is a medical term used to describe an increase in blood pressure at the doctor’s office. This can be caused by anxiety surrounding anticipated doctor’s visit.

In addition, its aso cheaper than going to the doctor’s office for just for a blood pressure check. This does not mean you should skip your doctor’s appointment

The ability to take your own blood pressure also serves as early detection of high blood pressure for people with normal blood pressure.

The Correct Way to Check Your Blood Pressure

Let us review the steps involved in checking your blood pressure the right way. Also, remember the preparation for checking your own blood pressure is the same as preparing to have it checked at the doctor’s office.

If you cannot avoid some of the items listed , then inform the person taking your blood pressure. This way it can be noted in the medical record. For instance, if you had coffee, then let the clinician know so they can make a note of your coffee intake in your chart. This is important especially if your readings are higher than expected.

Devices used to measure blood pressure are called sphygmomanometer and there are several types. The method used to check blood pressure varies, but they all include wrapping a cuff around a limb such as your arm or leg. The cuff is squeezed and inflated around the artery in that limb using a bulb or pump and then slowly released. The pressure is detected and measured with a gauge, mercury or digital device.

Aneroid and mercury sphygmomanometer utilizes manual measurement technique using a stethoscope to detect blood flow in the artery. Excellent listening skills and a quiet environment is essential for this technique to be accurate . Some clinicians still use this technique, but you will find that most use digital devices/automated devices.

Digital device uses oscillometer and an automatic calculation to display the measurement. A button on the device is pressed to start the measurement. These devices are routinely used in hospitals because they are quicker and more convenient. Efficiency is critical when you have a patient that needs frequent blood pressure check as often as every 5 mins.

Location Matters

Chances are you will use an automated digital device to check your blood pressure . American Heart Association (AHA) recommends using the upper arm for measurement. It should be snug but you should be able to slide your finger under the cuff easily.

The finger is not recommended because the blood vessels in those areas are small and will show a higher reading. You can use your wrist on under special circumstances. See the limb alert section below.

If you are unable to take measurement in your upper arm, then wrist or leg will be a better option than the finger. Keep in mind that the further away you are from the heart the higher the reading.

If you have to take your blood pressure on your leg, do this lying down with your leg at the level of your heart. Use a pillow to support your legs to raise them up to your heart level.

When taking your blood pressing while laying in the bed make sure your arm is supported at the level of your heart. If necessary use a pillow to support your arm.

Assume the Correct Position

 Non restrictive sleeve
 No caffeine 30 mins prior
 No exercise 30 mins prior
 No smoking 30 mins prior
 Empty your bladder
 Relax for 5 mins
 No talking, text, watching TV or activity
 Sit in a chair with back supported
 Uncross legs
 Feet flat on the ground or supported by a foot stool
 Relax upper part of the arm at the level of the heart on a flat surface
 Place cuff directly on the skin 1 inch above the bend of the arm
 Cuff should cover about 80% of arm length
 Keep tube still
 Follow manufacture instructions on how to use the device
 Repeat if necessary but no more than 2 times 2-3 mins apart
 Record reading date and time
 Take at the same time every day

Size Matters: One size Does Not Fit All

You will have to measure your arm to find the right size cuff. Make sure you take your arm measurement at the largest part above the bend of your arm. The measurement should be in centimeter. You should re measure your arm if you gain or lose weight. Before you buy a machine, find one that has you the cuff in your size.

Cuff sizes are as follows:

	Cuff Size recommended by American Heart Association
Cuff	Arm Circumference (cm)	Bladder Width (cm)	Bladder Length (cm)
Small Adult	22- 26	10	24
Adult	27-34	13	30
Large Adult	35-44	16	38
Adult Thigh	45-52	20	42

Using the wrong cuff size can impact your blood pressure reading. If the cuff is too tight, it will overestimate and cause a higher reading. If it is too lose, it will underestimate and produce a lower reading.

Device Validation and Certification Programs

Medical equipment must pass a safety testing before than can be used in the hospital or clinic. However, devices that are sold for personal usage are not required to pass safety testing before being placed on the market. Therefore, some devices that are being sold are not checked for safety and are not recommended by the American Heart Association.

In order for any equipment to pass the reliability and safety test in an out of the hospital setting, they must pass testing according to the standard international testing protocol. This also includes home blood pressure equipment. Therefore, before you purchase a device make sure it has met standards set by one of the following listed below :

Device Validation and Certification Programs

Association for the Advancement of Medical Instruments (AAMI)
British Hypertension Society
European Society of Hypertension

Take the device with you to your doctor’s office so you can compare the readings. With their equipment.

Limb Alert

You may have a good reason why you are unable to take your blood pressure on your arm. In these instances you can use your wrist or leg. Individuals with the conditions listed below should not take blood pressure in the affected arm.

AV Graft
AV Shunt
Fistula
Arm Trauma
Inflammation
Cast
Bulky Bandage
Breast Surgery
Axillary Surgery

When To Call Your Physician or Seek Medical Attention

For multiple high readings
For SBP above 180
Diastolic above 110

Regardless of the blood pressure equipment used, calibration determines the reliability of the machine. Follow the manufactures guide on how to calibrate the device.

Common Substances that affect Blood Pressure Control

For some individuals control can be a challenge. It maybe ok today but then out of the blue it goes array. Both you and your doctor is left wandering what’s going on . Why this sudden increase? This can be tricky because your physician has to now decide whether to change your treatment plan or not.

Even so, physicians usually don’t adjust medication based on just one reading or one office visit but the cause of the sudden increase needs to be explored further.

Studies show that most people do not have their blood pressure within the normal range even though they take blood pressure medication. One reason can be due to the recent changes made by the American Heart Association.

Another reason might be related to the substance, chemical or drug you are ingesting, smoking sniffing or injecting. Even prescribed medication can cause an increase in blood pressure.

Back in 2017 AHA adjusted the ranges for blood pressure. The new normal blood pressure is a systolic blood pressure of less than 120 and diastolic blood pressure less than 80. Some experts say this is too low. But as of now they have not changed their recommendation.

Because of this change, it some can take up to 3 medications to meet this new goal. But it is worth every effort. If it takes 3 pills to save your brain and your kidneys , then you should take it.

Just in case you did not know, high blood pressure kills and disables individuals. It is the leading causes of stroke and the leading cause of cardiovascular related death worldwide. So even if you live Timbuktu, this applies to you.

Besides lifestyle modification and taking your prescribed blood pressure medication another way you can help control your blood pressure is by examining and limiting some of your other recreational habits that might be interfering with you reaching the target blood pressure goal set by your physician.

Many of the substances that we indulge in on a regular basis can be harmful to us. We know recreational drugs and alcohol is bad for us but too much coffee can worsen your blood pressure. This can make it seems like the blood pressure medications are not working.

Do you drink coffee everyday ? How much coffee do you drink daily? Do you know how much caffeine is in a cup of coffee? You should keep track of this information. Cut back. Skip a few days and see what happens to your blood pressure.

In addition, some prescribe medication might also be affecting your blood pressure causing it to be high. The goal of this post is to bring awareness and make you think about the possible causes of your persistent high blood pressure. However, do not stop taking your medication without first talking to your doctor. I make a strong assumption that if you are taking any prescribed medication you are doing so under the supervision of a doctor.

If you do not have any of the risk factors associated with high blood pressure, this information may still apply to you. You can also control your blood pressure by paying attention to substances that you put in your body.

Drugs And Substances That Can cause High Blood Pressure or Interfere with Blood Pressure Control

Unfortunately, some prescription drugs that are known to cause hypertension must be taken in order to keep the conditions that they are treating under control. These medications that are known to cause drug-induced hypertension are as follows:

✔ Systemic corticosteroids – This class of prescription medications are use to treat auto immune conditions, inflammatory conditions and sometimes allergic reaction. Some examples are prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, or fludrocortisone.

✔ Ketoconazole -This class of prescription medication use to treat fungal skin infections. An example is Nioral

✔ Erythropoietin -This class of prescription medication is use to treat anemia. An example is Procrit or Epogen.

✔ Antiemtics -This class of prescription medication is use to treat nausea. Example are Reglan and Litican

✔ Angiogenesis inhibitors – This class of prescription medication are prescribed by physician to shrink tumors. Example are bevacizumab.

✔ Tyrosine kinase inhibitors – This class of prescription medication also fights tumors. Two examples are Sunitinib and sorafenib.

✔ Immunosuppresants – This class of prescribed medication is use to suppress the immune system and is given to patient had an organ transplant. It can use to treat Rhuematoid Arthritis. An example is cyclosporine.

✔ NSAIDs – This class of the drug can be purchase with or without a prescription. It can be use to treat pain,fever or prevent blood clot. Non prescription examples are aspirin and Ibuprofen Prescription option are Celebrex, . Check out the enter list here.

✔ Antidepressants – This class of medication is prescribed to treat depress. Examples are Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (Marplan) and Tricyclic Antidepressants (Doxepin)

✔ Atypical antipsychotics -This class of prescription medication is use to treat psychosis. Examples are Clozapine and Olanzapine.

✔ Amphetamines – Conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy are often treated by amphetamines such as dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine

✔ Recreational drugs – This class of drug is used recreationally. Examples are MDPV which is known as bath salts, methamphetamine, and cocaine

✔ Caffeine – This substance is found in coffee and chocolate. Amount over 300mg /day can cause high blood pressure

✔ Alcohol – This substance is also consumed socially and found in beer, wine, rum , vodka

✔ Herbal supplements – This substance can be plant or herb based and found in many food, drinks and pills .Examples are Ma Huang and St John’s Worth.

✔ Decongestants – These substances can be purchased without a prescription and are use to treat sinus congestion. Examples are pseudoephine and phenylphrine .

✔ Oral contraceptives – this class of medication is prescribed to women to prevent pregnancy.

This list is not all inclusive.
It only list the most common substances that most of us tend to use or consume from time to time and sometimes regularly. Review the list then select the over the counter items you can eliminate or use sparingly. Ask the pharmacist for an alternative.

Do not forget to always keep a current medication list of all prescription, over the counter and herbal supplements and make it available to your doctor.

Lower Blood Pressure Naturally without Medications

If you are reluctant to take medications to decrease your blood pressure or perhaps you are having a hard time reaching and maintaining your targeted blood pressure goal, do not worry. Worrying causes added stress and only makes it worse. Instead, you should check out activities listed below that can help you achieve your blood pressure goals without adding medications.

There is an activity that fits your situation and personality. You might discover something that you like and can stick to. But you might also find that you have to remove yourself from people, place, and things that might be hazardous to your health. Just explore.

You are What You Eat

Food is one of the main contributing factors to high blood pressure. It’s no secret that we like to eat and enjoy a good meal. Look at the size of our plates and waist line. These are good measurement tool that tells us and the world that we are overeating food.

It’s our over-hyped taste buds that get us in trouble and causes us to overindulge in our favorite treats.

From salty to sweet and everything in between there is a treat for every taste bud. Also, the food that you enjoy eating the most depends on your culture. For this reason, dieting is difficult for many.

Even when we know that we are possibly eating our way to an early grave, we still part take in sweet treats way more than we should. And we never just take “one bite,” and we are always starting our diet the next day. No wonder we have high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. All of these are attributed bad food.

Have no fear. There is still hope for you, me and the old lady. However, you will have to make adjustments to your food selections.

Did you know that you can eat your way to good health? This is especially important if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetic. You can prevent and control high blood pressure by eating more blood pressure friendly foods like the following:

Yogurt

Rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium, three minerals that help with the regulation of blood flow, yogurt has shown significant promise in reducing blood pressure naturally. A daily dose of low-fat yogurt is necessary, and research has shown that daily yogurt decreases the risk of developing high blood pressure by over 30%. But if you do not like yogurt here is some other options.

Foods High in Calcium

Cheese Products
Milk Products
Tofu
Sardines
Dairy Products
Fortified Cereals

Foods High in Potassium

Baked Potato
Beet Greens
Adzuki Beans
White Beans
Plain Yogurt
Sweet Potato
Atlantic Salmon
Soy Beans
Peanuts
Avocado
Spinach

Foods High in Magnesium

Pumpkin Seed
Swish chard
Spinach
Edamame/baby soy beans
Beans (any variety)
Almonds
Black-eyed peas/cowpeas
Pumpkin or squash seeds
Brazil nuts

Black Tea

Full of flavonoids, black tea has been shown to help lower blood pressure by small amounts. Although not a hugely significant finding, even the most minor changes can reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure. Researchers have revealed that flavonoids may help relax blood vessels which then results in lower blood pressure.

There are other ways to lower your blood pressure naturally. They can also help improve your overall well being.

Volunteer for a Charity or Event

At first, most people don’t volunteer to gain benefit for themselves. Volunteering for some is just giving back to society. If you ask them, they will say they do it to help others. They then start to find out some of the benefits they also gain such as stress reduction and happiness knowing they have made a positive difference in someone else’s life. If you have volunteered, then you know what I mean. If you have not then you need to try it. If you have a food bank in your area, sign up and try it out. Giving from the soul is good for the heart. Local charities are always looking for a few volunteers, and just a quick search online will result in plenty of opportunities

Walk a Dog

Pet ownership has many benefits, and that includes an overall improved mood and an increase in exercise levels. Walking at least 20 minutes a day with a dog will alleviate stress, which is a natural way to reduce blood pressure. Even those who don’t own a pet can reap benefits from this exercise by going to a local shelter and offering to be one of the dog walkers.

Listen to Music

Soothing music is used by many at the end of a stressful day, but we often do not know why soothing music is helpful. Soothing music slows down the heart rate, decreases breathing rate, and lowers blood pressure naturally. Whether classical, new age or love songs, any music that is slow and soothing can do the trick. In the alternative, music that is upbeat will increase heart rate and may help improve levels of exercise and activity

Exercise or Be More Physically Active

Moderate aerobic exercise, 30 minutes a day, will improve cardiovascular health and, in turn, reduce the risk of developing hypertension. People who start to exercise on a regular basis, either in a fitness class or by going for a brisk walk, will see significant improvement in their blood pressure without the use of medications. According to the American Heart Association, exercise can decrease your systolic (top number) by 4-9mm Hg.

Foster Positive Relationships

Detoxing from a bad relationship can help reduce your blood pressure. Toxic relationships can be stressful, burdensome, draining and unfulfilling. The constant arguing and fighting can be disastrous for your health. Do you get headaches or feel drained after an argument? Do not get me wrong. We don’t all think alike. Seven brothers, seven different minds. Therefore, from time to time we will have disagreements with our loved ones. But if you feel exhausted after an argument then its time to make some changes. The exhaustion that you feel is a sign of the stress hormone cortisol.

Stay Calm and Be Still

Sitting still and focusing your mind on one object or thing is almost impossible for some people. However, studies have shown that meditation is very helpful in reducing stress in the body because it decreases the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol in high amounts can cause high blood pressure.

Enjoy Massage Therapy

A good massage can help relieve stress, pain, and tension in the muscle. Physical touch by a human hand during a massage also sends a positive signal to the brain causing a sense of relaxation and peacefulness in the mind and body.

Start Coloring

Coloring books are not only for children. The adult version of coloring books allows you to be free, creative and mindful. This is an activity that you can do with your entire family that can cultivate a positive relationship within your family. Also, the color spaces are so small that it forces you to be mindful and in the moment.

As we get older, due to our family and work commitments, our lives can become very stressful. A huge contributor to high blood pressure is stress. This can be through a direct or indirect path. Some are obvious while some are not obvious. Amongst other things, we make bad food choices when we are stressed. Therefore, finding activities that can help us decrease our stress level will also reduce our blood pressure.
With just a few changes, we can control our blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease without medication. From coloring books to exercise lifestyles changes can make a big difference in overall health.

The New Normal Blood Pressure Range: Are You Normal?

For some individuals, blood pressure control is a challenge. Studies show that most people do not have their blood pressure within the normal range even though they take blood pressure medication. One reason can be due to the recent changes made by the American Heart Association. With the new changes more and more people are being diagnosed with elevated blood pressure or high blood pressure.

This means they are also required to start taking medications as well and make adjustment to their lifestyle such as being more active.

It can be very frustrating that you are doing all the right but even with three blood pressure medication your blood pressure remains elevated. There might be a good explanation that can be easily corrected. Continue reading to find out what might be preventing you from reaching your blood pressure goals.

Blood Pressure Range

Back in 2017 AHA decrease the ranges for blood pressure. The new normal blood pressure is a systolic blood pressure of less than 120 and diastolic blood pressure less than 80. Some experts say this is too low. But as of now, they have not changed their recommendation.

It can take up to 3 medication to meet this new goal. But it is worth every effort. High blood pressure kills and disables individuals. It is the leading causes of stroke and the leading cause of cardiovascular-related death.

Whatever steps you can take to diminish your risk of developing complication from high blood pressure, take it and take it now. Not later.

It does not have to be major changes. Small changes here and there can make a big difference. All your small incremental efforts will lead to success.

Too Much of a Good Thing

Besides lifestyle modification and taking your prescribed blood pressure medication another way you can help control your blood pressure is by examining some of you other recreational habits that might be interfering with you reaching your target blood pressure.

Many of the substances that we indulge in on a regular basis can be harmful to us. We know recreational drugs and alcohol is bad for us, but too much coffee can also be bad for your blood pressure causing it to be worse. This can make it seems like the blood pressure medications are not working.

Do you drink coffee every day? How much coffee do you drink daily? Do you know how much caffeine is in a cup of coffee? You should keep track of this information. Cut back on the amount of coffee you drink and see what happens to your blood pressure.

Also, some prescribe medication might also be affecting your blood pressure. What’s good for the goose is not always good for the gander.

The goal of this post is to bring awareness and make you think about the possible causes of your persistent high blood pressure. Put your detective hat on and start investing your habits.

However, do not stop taking your medication without first talking to your doctor.

Even if you do not have any of the risk factors associated with high blood pressure, this information may still apply to you.

Prescribe Medications that Increases Blood Pressure

✔ Systemic corticosteroids – This class of prescription medication is used to treat autoimmune conditions, inflammatory conditions, and sometimes allergic reaction. Some examples are prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, or fludrocortisone.

✔ Ketoconazole – This class of medication is used to treat fungal skin infections. An example is Nioral.

✔ Erythropoietin -This class of prescription medication is used to treat anemia. An example is Procrit or Epogen.

✔ Antiemetics -This class of medication is used to treat nausea. Examples are Reglan and Litican

✔ Angiogenesis inhibitors – This class of medication is prescribed by physician to shrink tumors. An example is bevacizumab.

✔ Tyrosine kinase inhibitors – This class of medication also fights tumors. Two examples are Sunitinib and sorafenib.

✔ Immunosuppressants – This class of prescribed medication is used to suppress the immune system and is given to post organ transplant patient. It can also be used to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. An example is a cyclosporine.

✔ NSAIDs – This class of the drug can be purchased with or without a prescription. It can be used to treat pain, fever or prevent a blood clot. Nonprescription examples are aspirin, and Ibuprofen. Prescription option is Celebrex.

✔ Antidepressants – This class of medication is prescribed to treat depression. Examples are Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (Marplan) and Tricyclic Antidepressants (Doxepin)

✔ Oral contraceptives – this class of medication is prescribed to women to prevent pregnancy.

✔ Atypical antipsychotics -This class of medication is used to treat psychosis. Examples are Clozapine and Olanzapine.

✔ Amphetamines – Conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy are often treated by amphetamines such as dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine.

The items listed in this category can be elimated without discussing with your doctor. Furthermore, none will not improve your health so why not just stop consuming it .But if you must continue, a few have substitution. For instance , instead of drinking regular cofee drink decaf.

✔ Recreational drugs – This class of drug is used recreationally and strictly for fun. Examples are MDPV which is known as bath salts, methamphetamine, and cocaine.

✔ Caffeine – This substance is found in coffee, tea and chocolate. Amount over 300mg /day can cause high blood pressure.

✔ Alcohol – This substance is also consumed socially and found in beer, wine, rum.

✔ Herbal supplements – This substance can be plant or herb based and found in many foods, drinks and pills Example Ma Huang, St John’s Worth.

✔ Decongestants – These substances can be purchased without a prescription and are used to treat sinus congestion. Examples are pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine

Always keep a current medication list of all prescription, over the counter and herbal supplements and make it available to your doctor.

As for the non-prescribed substance, avoid the ones that might potentially increase your blood pressure. For instance, if you have a cold or sinus problems ask the pharmacist about other options that are available to help alleviate your symptoms.