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Maintaining healthy blood pressure levels is essential for overall health and well-being. Blood pressure refers to the pressure exerted by circulating blood on the walls of arteries as it flows through them. In Canada, high blood pressure, or hypertension, has become a common health issue, affecting millions of people. In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for hypertension in Canada.

Causes of High Blood Pressure

There are two distinct factors that can result in high blood pressure: essential and secondary hypertension. While the precise causes of essential hypertension are unknown, specific risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the condition, such as age, family history, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, high salt intake, diets rich in fat, and stress.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Hypertension is commonly known as the “silent killer,” although certain symptoms may indicate its presence, such as nosebleeds, blurred or double vision, dizziness, headaches, breathlessness, palpitations, nausea, and vomiting. Nevertheless, numerous individuals with high blood pressure may not experience any symptoms.

Treatment Options for High Blood Pressure

Various options are available for the management and control of high blood pressure. These comprise lifestyle modifications as well as medications.

Lifestyle Modifications

One of the most effective ways to manage hypertension is through lifestyle modifications, which can include:

• Exercise – Regular exercise for at least 30 minutes to one hour, five days per week, can significantly lower blood pressure by 4 to 9 mmHg. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any exercise regime.
• Weight Loss – Even a modest reduction in weight can have a significant impact on reducing elevated blood pressure. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy weight can enhance the effectiveness of medications prescribed for high blood pressure.
• Stress Management -The integration of stress-management techniques and relaxation response can significantly enhance the management of hypertension.
• Dietary Changes – Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, omega oils, vegetable oils, and unrefined high-quality carbohydrates can help manage hypertension. Trimming fat from animal products and avoiding processed meats is also recommended. Additionally, cutting down on salt intake and limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption can help lower blood pressure.

Medications

If lifestyle modifications alone are not effective in managing hypertension, medication may be required. There are several types of blood pressure medications available in Canada, including ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics. It’s important to discuss medication options with a healthcare professional, as they can determine the most appropriate medication for each individual. Here are some of the most commonly prescribed blood pressure medications in Canada:

• Accupril (Quinapril) – It is an ACE inhibitor medication that helps to lower blood pressure by inducing relaxation in blood vessels. It works by inhibiting the formation of angiotensin II, which is a hormone that narrows the blood vessels and increases blood pressure.
• Cardura (Doxazosin) – Cardura (Doxazosin) is a medication that has dual benefits. It not only aids in the treatment of an enlarged prostate by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck but also lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
• Benicar (Olmesartan) – It is an ARB medication that works by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, thus aiding in the reduction of blood pressure. It may also improve blood flow by relaxing blood vessels.
• Accuretic (quinapril/HCTZ) – A combination medication that contains an ACE inhibitor and a diuretic (water pill) to help lower blood pressure.
• Aldactone (spironolactone) – Aldactone (spironolactone) is a type of diuretic medication that aids in the removal of excess fluids from the body, potentially leading to the reduction of blood pressure. It may also block the effects of a hormone called aldosterone, which can contribute to high blood pressure.
• Benicar HCT (Olmesartan HCT) – A combination medication that contains an ARB and a diuretic to help lower blood pressure.
• Bystolic (Nebivolol) – It works by slowing down the heart rate and reducing the force of the heart’s contractions. This mechanism can help in lowering blood pressure.
• Cardizem CD (Diltiazem CD) – A calcium channel blocker that helps relax blood vessels to lower blood pressure. It works by blocking the entry of calcium into the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels, which can help reduce their contractions.
• Exforge (Amlodipine/Valsartan) – A combination medication that contains a calcium channel blocker and an ARB to help lower blood pressure. It works by relaxing blood vessels and blocking the effects of angiotensin II.
• Inderal LA (Propranolol LA) – A beta-blocker that helps to slow down the heart rate and reduce blood pressure.
• Lotensin HCT (benazepril/HCTZ) – Another combination medication that contains an ACE inhibitor and a diuretic to help lower blood pressure.

Conclusion

High blood pressure is a prevalent health issue in Canada, but there are several treatment options available to manage and control it. By making lifestyle modifications, such as exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and making dietary changes, individuals can help lower their blood pressure. If lifestyle modifications alone are not effective, medication may be required, and an online pharmacy like CanadaPharmacy.com can provide a convenient and affordable option for accessing blood pressure medication. To determine the most appropriate course of action, it is crucial to discuss the available treatment options with a healthcare professional.