Blood pressure is simply the force that blood exerts on an artery wall as it circulates through the body. Normal blood pressure measures about 120/80mmHg. High blood pressure (hypertension) is more common in patients than low blood pressure (hypotension).

 

Hypertension
Hypertension results when blood pressure is measured to be greater than 130/80mmHg.Hypertension increases the risk of developing heart disease, kidney disease, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), eye damage and even stroke. The warning signs of hypertension are quiet silent. Few patients may present with dull headaches and/or dizzy spells. Certain risk factors such as age, ethnicity, family history, excess weight, inactivity, tobacco use, sodium intake, poor potassium intake and even high stress levels can adversely affect an individual’s blood pressure to rise. Chronic conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney disease and sleep apnoea may also increase the risk of high blood pressure.

Hypotension
Low blood pressure causes symptoms or signs due to the low flow of blood through the arteries and veins. When the flow of blood is too low to deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to vital organs such as the brain, heart and kidney, such organs will not be able to function normally and maybe permanently damaged. Common symptoms include: dizziness, fainting, lack of concentration, blurred vision, nausea, cold skin, rapid shallow breathing, fatigue, depression and increased thirst. There are many causes for low blood pressure, however the more common ones include pregnancy, prescription medication, predisposing heart conditions, endocrine problems, dehydration, blood loss, allergic reactions or even nutritional deficiencies such as B₁₂and folate which contribute to anaemia.

Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a viable and beneficial option for the treatment and management of blood pressure. Homeopathy treats each patient individually therefore different treatment plans will exist from patient to the next. However along with strict homeopathic treatment protocol, certain lifestyle and diet changes will have to be implemented for maximum efficacy. Some remedies may be useful as first-aid in intense situations, however proper analysis of the patient is required prior to prescribing an in-depth treatment plan. More about homoepathy……