Many people experience no symptoms of high blood pressure, but it can result in serious health problems like heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, and vision problems. While there is no cure, it can be treated with medication and lifestyle changes. Aside from monitoring your readings with the right pharmacy supplies, here's how to deal with the condition in the long run.

How to Live With High Blood Pressure

1. Exercise 

Studies have shown that regular exercise can lower blood pressure. In some cases, increased physical activity matches the results of medication. The American College of Cardiology and AHA recommend moderate to vigorous exercise sessions of 40 minutes, three or four times a week. Walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, dancing, and strength training are some potential options you should discuss with a doctor.

2. Healthy Diet

Most doctors encourage patients with high blood pressure to follow the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. It consists of whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, fruit, and low-fat dairy products. Under the plan, you should cut back on saturated fat, sodium, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. DASH also recommends eating foods high in potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants, like leafy greens and berries.

3. Stress Relief

Everybody experiences stress. However, excess or chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. The most successful stress relief techniques will depend on your personal preferences. Some tried-and-true relaxation techniques include deep breathing, meditation, yoga, massage, and warm baths. Many studies have shown that listening to music every day can also reduce stress. 

4. Regular Monitoring

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that people with hypertension check their blood pressure regularly with a home monitor, which can be purchased at your local pharmacy. Doing so helps health care providers determine if the prescribed medication is working. Home monitors make it easy to track your numbers, watch for changes and detect patterns. Some options even record the readings so you can take them to your next doctor's appointment.

Get a blood pressure monitor at Bernens Medical & Pharmacy. The hometown pharmacy is known for its wide selection of products and professional services. They have provided quality medical supplies, prescriptions, and equipment to customers in the Cincinnati, OH, area since 1963. The experienced, knowledgeable pharmacists are dedicated to fulfilling their customers' needs. Call (513) 471-7575 to speak to a staff member or visit their website to learn more about their services.