May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z High Blood Pressure Treatment for High Diastolic Reading
Treatment for High Diastolic Reading |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I have been monitoring my bp for two weeks and I am noticing my diastolic number averages between 95-100 over 127-137. What can I do to lower my diastolic number? Dear Melvin: Treatment of hypertension generally begins with lifestyle modification, including moderate dietary salt restriction, weight reduction in obese patients, avoidance of excess alcohol intake, and regular aerobic exercise. i) Dietary salt restriction — A low salt diet will usually lower high blood pressure and may prevent the onset of hypertension. The recommendation is to reduce dietary intake of salt to approximately 2.3 g of sodium or 6 g of salt. ii) Weight loss — Weight loss in obese individuals can lead to a significant fall in blood pressure. The weight loss-induced decline in BP generally ranges from 0.5 to 2 mmHg for every 1 kg of weight lost. iii) Diet - increased intake of fruits and vegetables and low-fat dairy products and can be combined with salt restriction. iv) Exercise — Long-term aerobic exercise regimens have in most studies had a beneficial effect on the systemic blood pressure. v) Limited alcohol intake — decreasing alcohol intake in individuals who drink excessively significantly lowers blood pressure. However, if these measures do not lower your systolic and diastolic pressure, I would suggest that you consult your doctor/cardiologist. You may then require antihypertensive medication. The goal of antihypertensive therapy in patients with uncomplicated combined systolic and diastolic hypertension is a blood pressure of below 140/90 mmHg; treatment goals are determined by the higher BP category. I hope the information helps. |
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| Last Updated ( Monday, 09 January 2012 ) |
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