Prehypertension

Prehypertension is a term used to describe blood pressure that is higher than normal but not high enough to be considered high blood pressure - more than 120/80 and less than 139/89.

Symptoms:

Prehypertension does not have any symptoms. The only way to detect prehypertension is to keep track of your blood pressure readings.

Causes:

It can be stress, diet, and lack of exercise, fats, processed foods and lack of proper sleep. Also medications for birth control, cold remedies, decongestants, over-the-counter pain relievers and some prescription drugs may cause prehypertension.

Risk Factors:

• Family history of high blood pressure
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Diet high in sodium or low in potassium
• Tobacco use
• Excessive alcohol use

Certain chronic conditions - including high cholesterol, diabetes, sleep apnea (abnormal pauses in breathing), kidney disease, thyroid disease and adrenal disease may increase the risk of prehypertension as well.

Treatment:

Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment.

Lifestyle and dietary changes -

• Maintain a healthy weight - If you're overweight, losing even 2 kgs can lower your blood pressure.

• Eat healthy foods - Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy foods.

• Reduce salt in the diet.

• Increase physical activity - Regular physical activity can help lower your blood pressure. Include at least 30 minutes of activity a day.

• Limit alcohol

• Quit smoking

• Prefer a low-fat diet.

Reference:
1. www.mayoclinic.com
2. www.wrongdiagnosis.com