The hazards of hypertension? Hypertension is the most significant risk factor for stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease, and in recent years, there has been a trend towards its occurrence in younger individuals. Prolonged high blood pressure can lead to heart failure, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, stroke, retinal damage, and impaired kidney function, among other complications. Effectively and consistently controlling blood pressure is crucial for a healthy lifestyle.

How to measure blood pressure correctly? Before measuring blood pressure, avoid exercising for 30 minutes. During measurement, wear loose clothing and sit with your body upright. Place your arm naturally on the table with the elbow at the same level as your heart. Keep both feet flat on the ground and avoid talking. Position the middle part of the cuff bladder above the brachial artery in the upper arm, and do not roll up the cuff's edges. The lower edge of the cuff should be placed 2-3 cm above the elbow crease, and you should be able to fit two fingers between the cuff and your arm for proper tightness. If the cuff is too tight, both systolic and diastolic pressures may be lower than actual; if it's too loose, it can lead to higher blood pressure readings.

Should you choose an electronic or mercury sphygmomanometer? Many people are loyal fans of mercury sphygmomanometers, but in reality, electronic blood pressure monitors are safer and more reliable. Mercury sphygmomanometers are prone to human errors and carry the risk of mercury leakage. Electronic blood pressure monitors offer good accuracy, repeatability, and are easier to use.

Which arm to measure, left or right? For newly diagnosed patients or initial blood pressure measurements, both arms should be measured, and the higher reading should be considered. Long-term measurements should be consistently taken on the same arm.

When is the best time to measure blood pressure? How many times should it be measured? For patients undergoing home blood pressure monitoring, it is recommended to measure blood pressure 2-3 times in the morning and evening, and take the average value. These two time periods best reflect the baseline blood pressure. If necessary, 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring can be applied to provide a more accurate reflection of blood pressure levels throughout the day.

What is the optimal blood pressure level for control? In the clinic setting, blood pressure should be less than 140/90 mmHg, while for home self-monitoring, it should be less than 135/85 mmHg. If tolerable, the recommended target for most patients is 130/80 mmHg.

Should you stop taking blood pressure medication if you don't feel any symptoms? Firstly, some hypertensive patients may not experience symptoms, and even when the systolic pressure reaches 220 mmHg, they may not feel any discomfort until it is too late and a cerebral hemorrhage occurs. Secondly, the absence of symptoms does not mean there is no harm. Research shows that for every 10 mmHg increase in systolic pressure, the risk of stroke and fatal myocardial infarction increases by 53% and 31% respectively. Thirdly, symptomatic relief medication cannot replace antihypertensive medication. Some hypertensive patients who experience symptoms like headaches or dizziness may habitually use painkillers or dizziness-relieving medications, which can mask the condition and delay appropriate treatment.

What if you can't stop taking medication once you start? Some patients, after being diagnosed with hypertension, may refuse medication out of concern for developing "drug resistance" and worry that once they start medication, they won't be able to stop. This is a misconception. Firstly, antihypertensive medication is not like antibiotics or sleep aids and does not lead to "drug resistance." The reason medication cannot be stopped is due to the medical condition that requires it, not drug resistance. Secondly, early control of blood pressure can help prevent complications in the heart, brain, kidneys, and other organs.

Elevating blood pressure and taking medication, not taking medication when it's not high? Some patients measure their blood pressure and only take medication if it is high, neglecting medication when it is not. This practice can lead to fluctuating blood pressure levels, causing significant damage to the blood vessels. It is important to adhere to a regular medication regimen and maintain stable blood pressure control.

What should hypertensive patients pay attention to in their daily lives? Daily health care is crucial for individuals with hypertension.

1. Reduce sodium intake: Sodium intake is positively correlated with blood pressure levels and the incidence of hypertension. The key point of dietary therapy is to limit salt intake, aiming for a daily sodium intake of less than 6 grams.

2. Reduce sugar intake: High blood sugar can damage blood vessel walls, leading to excessive insulin secretion, which stimulates blood vessel constriction and increases blood pressure. Therefore, hypertensive patients should be mindful of reducing sugar intake.

3. Control weight: Pay attention to the difference between actual weight and ideal weight. Weight loss is beneficial for achieving blood pressure control. For every 1000 grams of weight loss, systolic pressure can decrease by 4 mmHg. Weight loss should be done gradually and in a scientifically appropriate manner.

4. Control alcohol consumption: The incidence of hypertension increases with higher alcohol intake. The more alcohol consumed, the higher the systolic and diastolic pressures. Excessive alcohol consumption also carries the risk of hypotension and shock.

5. Maintain a positive mood: When a person is in a bad mood, adrenaline levels rise, leading to increased blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to enhance the ability to manage emotions.

6. Improve sleep: The quality of sleep in hypertensive patients affects the fluctuation of blood pressure the following day. If sleep is inadequate, blood pressure tends to rise. Therefore, good sleep is the source of good health.