Last month I wrote about the role blood sugar plays in diabetes. This article addresses the role blood pressure plays in the life of diabetics.
While many diabetics are concentrating on their blood sugar numbers, problems often arise when their high blood pressure goes undetected. Knowing their blood pressure numbers and keeping track of their highs and lows can help prevent severe problems such as blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, and strokes.
Some people have no symptoms when their blood pressure is high, causing them to go for years wihtout knowing they may be in harms way. A heart attack may be their first warning, and then it could be too late.
People who are aware of the potential problems high blood pressure can cause are better able to manage their health. Knowing what range their blood pressure should be and undergoing routine follow up helps ensure they keep the goals their physician sets for them.
Blood pressure results are written with two numbers separated by a slash. Normally, the first number should be below 130 and the second below 80. For example, blood pressure is written 130/80. Those who are diagnosed with high blood pressure and currently taking medication should not stop just because they feel better, or their numbers routinely become lower. They must see a doctor before stoping their medication. Usually, as soon as they stop their medication, their health problems return.
There are several ways people can control their blood pressure:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise at least three times a week for thirty minutes
- Eat foods low in salt
- Eat healthy meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Drink alcohol in moderation, or not at all
High blood pressure can cause serious health problems when someone has diabetes. Find out what the right blood pressure numbers are for you. Most doctors check a patients blood pressure during routine visits.
Knowing how to control their blood pressure through meal planning, medication, and physical activity may prevent serious health problems for diabetics.
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