Labile
Hypertension - What is it?
You
may have heard about labile
hypertension, or been told it's a possible
diagnosis, but there is a good chance that you don't know what it
means.
It is a condition of significantly
fluctuating blood pressure, usually over the course of a single day. It
may be unusually low, or rise significantly in a short period of time,
with abrupt, repeated fluctuations.
There are many different
reasons for these fluctuations with stress and anxiety
being the main ones. People whose blood pressure is slowly rising may
also experience this problem. It is extremely important not to ignore
labile
hypertension, even if your symptoms appear to go away.
This kind
of blood pressure fluctuation can be quite dangerous and will need to
be monitored to determine the best treatment.
Common symptoms include
a frequent ringing in the ears and headache. An
increase in pressure may occur due to emotional stresses and
traditional blood pressure treatments often have little effect, while
anti-anxiety treatments may be helpful for controlling blood pressure.
People with this condition should generally avoid caffeine, and
must monitor their blood pressure to make sure that they do not develop
other types of hypertension. Sensitivity to salt is also quite common.
Once
you have been diagnosed with labile
hypertension, the next step is
having a 24 hour blood pressure monitoring session. Portable
monitors are commonly used. Readings are taken all through the day to
determine just how your blood pressure tends to fluctuate. Then, the
right medications or treatments can be prescribed. Just like with
ordinary hypertension, it's likely that you will need to change your
lifestyle somewhat.
Stress management, reduction of salt and fat
intake in your diet, weight loss, and an increase in regular exercise
are all likely to be prescribed if you have labile hypertension.
You are
also likely to be told to reduce your consumption of alcohol and to
quit smoking if you have either of these habits, since they can
contribute to hypertension. Exercise does not increase blood pressure
(as a common myth claims) but can actually help reduce your stress
levels, improving your overall health and helping to even out your
blood pressure over the course of the day.
Getting the right
treatment and remembering to considerate the warning
signs is extremely important. Don't think that this problem is not
worth
paying attention to. It could be the caution sign for
something worse. See a doctor immediately if you think that
you
have this
problem, and listen to the advice if it is your
diagnosis. It could make your life a whole lot better.
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