New Blood Pressure Guidelines: What You Need to Know
New Blood Pressure Guidelines: What You Need to Know
If you have high blood pressure, you may have heard about the new guidelines from the American Heart Association. These guidelines recommend a more aggressive approach to treating high blood pressure, which means that the next time you get it checked, your medical provider may suggest an earlier start to treatment. This could mean starting medication sooner or making more significant lifestyle changes.
Say Goodbye to Alcohol
One significant change in the new guidelines is the recommendation to skip alcohol altogether if you have high blood pressure. While moderate alcohol consumption has been thought to have some health benefits, the American Heart Association now advises avoiding it entirely. This is because alcohol can raise blood pressure and can also interfere with certain blood pressure medications. So, it's time to say goodbye to that glass of wine with dinner or the occasional cocktail on the weekends.
Earlier Treatment is Key
The new guidelines also stress the importance of early treatment for high blood pressure. Studies have shown that starting treatment at an earlier stage can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. This means that if you have high blood pressure, it's crucial to take it seriously and work with your medical provider to start treatment as soon as possible. Along with medication, making lifestyle changes, such as exercising regularly and following a healthy diet, can also help to lower your
