Why Monitoring Your Blood Pressure Is Very Important

Have you been diagnosed with hypertension? Do you fail to check your blood pressure as recommended by the expert? Well, you can be at an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Regular blood pressure checks can be beneficial to catch health problems early, manage risks, and stay in control of your well-being. Here’s why you shouldn’t skip them.

Why High Blood Pressure Can Be Fatal?

At least 4.6 million deaths in India can be prevented by 2040 if half its hypertensive population controls its blood pressure, according to the first-ever report released by WHO on the global impact of hypertension. It estimates that 31 per cent of the country’s population or 188.3 million people are living with the condition currently. Considering high blood pressure (140/90 mmHg or higher) leads to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney damage and many other health problems and is preventable, the WHO highlights the problem areas. Only 37 per cent of Indians with hypertension are diagnosed, and only 30 per cent get treated. At present, only 15 per cent of those with hypertension in the country have it under control, the report says. In fact, it adds, more than half of all the deaths in the country (52 per cent) due to cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack can be attributed to elevated blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a "silent killer,” as it shows no obvious symptoms but is known to quietly damage your body. Many people are unaware they have it until it leads to serious health issues like heart attacks, strokes, or even kidney damage. Hence, it is imperative to  regularly check your blood pressure and stay healthy. It’s quick, easy, and can give you valuable insight into your heart health. Whether you are young or old, healthy or managing other health conditions, making blood pressure checks can go a long way and help you to know your health status.

6 Reasons Why You Should Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly

Here are six reasons why you should check your blood pressure daily:

• Timely detection of hypertension: High blood pressure doesn’t always cause symptoms, so many people don’t realize they have it. Regular checks help detect it early, before it causes serious damage to your heart, kidneys, or brain and ultimately lead to the loss of life. It is necessary to monitor blood pressure with the help of an expert.
• Prevents critical problems: According to various studies, if left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and even vision loss. By monitoring it regularly, you can take action early and prevent these life-threatening complications. You should take BP medication as prescribed by the doctor only and don’t skip it at all.
• Helps to track progress of treatment: If you're already diagnosed with hypertension and are taking medication or following lifestyle changes, regular checks help track how well your treatment is working and if any medication adjustment is required. The dosage can be altered as per one’s requirement.

• Motivates you to adhere to a well-balanced lifestyle: Knowing your blood pressure numbers can motivate you to make healthier choices, like eating less salt, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, or managing stress better.
• Helps you to calm down: Even if your readings are normal, checking regularly gives you confidence and control over your health. It reassures you that your heart is functioning well and alerts you if anything changes. It also will mean that your stroke risk is cut down as your BP is under control. Hence, it can calm you down. So, you should not panic and can continue with your regular routine.
• Gives the clear picture to the doctor when it comes to your health. Regular checks can allow the expert to be able to make prompt decisions when it comes to your health. Remember, regular blood pressure check is a small move that can help you with larger health benefits. So, make smart choices when it comes to your health as “Precaution Is Better Than Cure.”

(This article is authored by Dr Sameer V Pagad, Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Gleneagles Hospitals Parel)

Image Credits: Freepik

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