In a time of economic crisis, such as lack of confidence in currency valuation, inflation, and high food insecurity, the high cost of living seems to be causing stress in the minds of people.
Stress is a natural response that the body and mind experience when one encounters challenges or demanding situations, and is one major factor that causes hypertension or high blood pressure.
Hypertension is a medical condition where the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is too high, it is like having too much force against the pipe in the body. If not well managed, it can cause serious health problems.
As financial pressures mount, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing this chronic condition can seem daunting. However, experts emphasize that with strategic planning and resourcefulness, it’s possible to navigate hypertension effectively even amid the economic crisis.
According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report in 2023, about 1.28 billion adults aged 30 to 79 worldwide have hypertension.
Factors that increase the risk of having high blood pressure include old age, genetics, being overweight or obese, not being physically active, a high-salt diet, and drinking too much alcohol.
Often referred to as a “silent killer”, hypertension usually has no symptoms until it causes complications such as heart disease, stroke, or kidney problems.
Some of the symptoms attributed to hypertension include severe headaches, chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision or other vision changes, anxiety, confusion, buzzing in the ears, nosebleeds, and abnormal heart rhythm.
Most people might not have these symptoms which is why it is necessary to check blood pressure, especially for persons always undergoing stress.
Living a life free from high blood pressure can be achieved primarily by changing the way of living against all odds.
Here are some practical tips for managing hypertension:
· Opt for budget-friendly nutrition. Focus on staple foods that are rich in nutrients and low in cost. Eat more vegetables and fruits, and reduce salt intake in diets.
· Engage in physical activities such as running, dancing, walking, swimming, and other at-home exercises. Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.
· Ensure to keep appointments with your health care professional.
· Maintain an optimistic demeanor. Be sure to engage in healthy conversations, avoiding stressful or depressing topics where necessary.
· Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation as steps for stress management.
· For individuals struggling to afford hypertension medications, exploring generic alternatives and prescription assistance programs can provide much-needed relief.
In addition, never neglect the place of rest for physical health. While being expected to go about various businesses to make ends meet, some individuals are faced with the option of working multiple jobs just to keep afloat. Hence the very essence of rest cannot be overemphasized as optimal health should be maintained at all costs.
