Blood Pressure
High Blood Pressure and Cognitive Health
As if we needed more warnings about high blood pressure, Brazilian research¹ has shown that hypertension, even for short periods in middle-aged and older adults, can increase the rate of cognitive decline. Cognitive decline is a normal part of aging, but issues such as high blood pressure can speed up the process. For some, however, this can turn into more severe conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Cognitive function includes memory, concentration, attention span, thinking, and fluency.
Of particular concern is that estimates now show upwards of half of all adults in the United States have high blood pressure.
Should Your Blood Pressure Be Taken Lying Down?
Recent data¹ presented at the American Heart Association Hypertension Scientific Sessions from a long-term study has shown that there’s always something to learn, even with modern medicine and the technological advances we have enjoyed. This long-term study consisted of about 11,000 patients and began in the late 1980s. The thinking behind this study is that not all cases of high blood pressure will be found when blood pressure readings are taken sitting. Indeed, this was true, with approximately 16% of participants showing high blood pressure while lying down but not while sitting.
The data suggests that a blood pressure reading while patients sit and then lie down could be more valuable in evaluating heart disease risk than blood pressure readings with patients sitting up alone.
Four Ways to Lower Blood Pressure
There are several reasons why our blood pressure may be elevated. After all, our cardiovascular system responds to several physical and psychological inputs. For example, when you are embarrassed, excited, or nervous, your heart starts beating faster, you may get flushed, and your blood pressure may increase. It’s one of the most common reasons why blood pressure readings at your doctor’s office are almost certainly higher than when you are relaxing at home. Blood pressure is also affected by physical exertion. Your blood pressure will rise when you work out or perform physical activity. It can even temporarily increase when you use the sauna or steam room. In the case of exercise and sauna, blood pressure readings typically drop rapidly after the exertion is over and usually settle below baseline for a decidedly beneficial outcome.
How Obesity Increases Blood Pressure
As you probably already know, obesity is a leading cause of hypertension, known as high blood pressure, which, in turn, is a significant risk factor for longer-term heart disease and congestive heart failure. And while this is no secret, many patients still do not understand the seriousness of high blood pressure and how obesity can cause it. In this article, we will discuss just that.
There are several reasons why high blood pressure can occur.