Over 70% of individuals above the age of 60 have high blood pressure, and that can be a dangerous problem to leave unaddressed. If you're trying to lower your blood pressure, it's normal to consider what's causing the hypertension in the first place.
As you're trying to make your health a bigger priority, look at the sources of tension that impact your life the most. Does stress cause high blood pressure? Read on to find out and learn what Cedarburg seniors can do to lower blood pressure risks!
When you're ruminating about a financial issue or concerned about a relationship, your stress levels go up. Similarly, job-related stress or worries about your health can become mental health obstacles. While the occasional bout of stress may not seem like a big deal, ongoing stress can be a problem.
Stress can hurt heart health if you don't start managing it. Stress can disrupt sleep and contribute to weight gain. But it specifically can cause big problems with your heart if you don't work to lower it.
You'll harm your cardiovascular system and lower your quality of life in Cedarburg if you let stress overwhelm you. Stress has the capacity to:
Stress can release hormones that cause your blood pressure to rise. In most situations, your blood pressure will lower after enduring a stressful situation.
But ongoing stressful situations are a different story. Your blood pressure may remain elevated and trigger other issues.
In short, chronic stress can disrupt both your mind and your heart. It's critical to get to the root of your problem and find coping mechanisms to handle a stressful situation. Otherwise, you'll burden your heart and may become unable to maximize each day.
Failing to manage blood pressure can trigger other health problems over time. And when you're hoping to enjoy all that Cedarburg has to offer, you don't want to take chances with your health. Longterm risks include:
When you put extra strain on your heart to pump blood, you elevate your chances of enduring heart disease and possibly a heart attack. Further, artery blockages can lead to strokes, and burst arteries can cause aneurysms. You'll experience plaque buildup in your arteries, too, when you have high blood pressure, and that can limit blood flow.
Additionally, with interrupted blood flow to the brain, your potential for memory problems or even dementia increases. High blood pressure can damage your eyes' blood vessels, leading to vision issues and the possibility of blindness.
Managing stress in aging doesn't have to feel like a significant hurdle. In fact, it can be a way to delve into new activities and deepen relationships with trusted friends and family.
A few simple senior wellness strategies or solutions can keep the stressors at bay while helping your heart health. You can:
There's not a single coping mechanism that works for everyone. Instead, you'll need to experiment with ways to control stress. Your approach may vary depending on the severity of the stress.
Mindfulness techniques, such as meditating or breathing exercises, can work well to help with stress. Sit still and focus on your breath for 15 minutes at the end of the day. In the process, you'll find it easier to tune out troubling distractions.
As other options, try focused routines, like yoga. With yoga, you'll be keyed in on stretching and strengthening your body. These actions are good for your heart and your head.
You can listen to soothing music before bedtime to help with stress and blood pressure, too. The right music can lower your heart rate and make your breathing more controlled.
You can be more active to help lower blood pressure and release stressful thoughts. Even a simple activity like going for a walk each day in a beautiful Cedarburg location can be a great way to lower stress. As a bonus, you'll help your immune system and keep your weight in check.
In some cases, your doctor may suggest medications to manage blood pressure. Ask for their recommendation at your next visit, and discuss your family history as it relates to high blood pressure for added context.
Ultimately, taking ownership of your health as an older adult is your responsibility. You'll gain more from your experiences in the Cedarburg community, too, if you're feeling your best. Plan on:
It's critical to reflect on your life each day and acknowledge those issues that are causing stress. Maybe you lost a spouse, for instance. Or perhaps you feel lonely or struggle with a deteriorating family relationship.
Whatever the case may be, recognizing stress is an important step toward managing it. Be open with your doctor about problems at your annual checkup. Find wellness strategies for older adults to cope with stress so it doesn't dominate your life.
And don't be afraid to pursue counseling or talk with a trusted friend to work through your challenges. Your heart will thank you for making the effort.
Are you still wondering, "Does stress cause high blood pressure?" Yes, stress contributes to poor heart health by constricting blood vessels and raising your risk of a stroke. For seniors, knowing the risks and taking measures to reduce blood pressure is imperative for better health and safety.
At Lakehouse Cedarburg, we offer residents the area's most attentive care and the best amenities. With an array of engaging activities, spacious floor plans, and warm yet professional staff, you'll be able to thrive in our community. Contact us today to learn more!