Like many in the health and wellness community, I shifted my focus from just maintaining overall health to specifically helping my patients get their blood pressure back to normal. You might think you already know why I’m passionate about stable blood pressure, but this post will take you through five reasons why it became a top priority for me and my patients.
Please read to the end to discover the steps I've taken to achieve this with my patients. No peeking allowed! In the process, you might find your new favorite strategies for improving your health.
Background: Blood Pressure and My Medical Practice
Let’s hop into our handy time travel machine and revisit my practice toward healthier living. I’d been out practicing for a year and more and more of my patients worried about their blood pressure. I mean some of them were taking it 3 -6 times a day! Soon thereafter though, new machines, watches, and all sorts of monitoring tools became more accessible and affordable, and the health and wellness world buzzed with excitement about preventive care.
I knew I had to integrate blood pressure management into my routine to educate patients about their overall health. Fast forward to the present, and so many are keen on how often their blood pressure wavers up and down like a gusty wind.
So what is everyone so worried about these days?
6 Reasons Why Stable Blood Pressure is a Game-Changer
Reason #1. Reduced Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke
Managing blood pressure is directly linked to lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death. Helping my patients get their blood pressure under control has been the best way to significantly decrease their chances of facing these serious health issues.
CDC and the National Institute on Health have told us for years that uncontrolled blood pressure is a measure of our future health.
Reason #2. Reduced Strain on Your Organs
When you first started monitoring blood pressure, the average impact on organs like the heart and kidneys was a major concern. High blood pressure can damage these vital organs over time. Understanding this, you might realize that maintaining stable blood pressure protects the organs from unnecessary strain.
Although some people might argue that the cost of maintaining a healthy lifestyle has increased, there are now many affordable options for blood pressure monitoring and management.
Reason #3. More Energy and Stamina
This one comes down to personal experience and patient feedback. When blood pressure is out of control, my patients often feel drained and struggle with endurance during physical activities, including sex. Achieving normal blood pressure means the heart doesn’t have to work as hard, leading to increased energy levels and stamina.
Sometimes the best reason to focus on a health goal is to regain your vitality and zest for life. I’ve seen my patients feel rejuvenated and more motivated once they see improvements in their energy levels.
Reason #4. Improved Sleep Quality
High blood pressure can disrupt sleep patterns, leaving people feeling unrested. When my patients take steps to normalize their blood pressure, their sleep quality often improves significantly. This change is vital for overall well-being and daily functioning.
My progress with improving sleep quality has been transformative for many. It’s amazing how a small adjustment in one area of health can lead to such profound changes in others.
Reason #5. Reduced Risk of Sexual Dysfunction
This might be a less commonly discussed benefit, but high blood pressure can impair blood flow to the genitals, leading to sexual dysfunction. By stabilizing blood pressure, my patients have been able to improve their sexual health and well-being.
Reason #6. No worries.
It was nice to see my patients understand how blood pressure works. Once they knew that they didn’t have to worry about it anymore, they felt the weight of the world lift off their shoulders. I often told them, “Let me worry about your blood pressure and you go live your life.” In truth, I didn’t worry about them because I knew that they understood how blood pressure worked and it was going to be OK.
Here are some of the benefits they’ve experienced:
- Improved Energy Levels: More stamina for daily activities.
- Better Sleep: Consistent and restful nights.
- Enhanced Vitality: Overall better physical health.
- Peace of Mind: No more worrying about it.
What I Recommended Instead of Just Relying on Medication
I actively helped my patients manage their blood pressure through lifestyle changes along with medication and a number on a machine. This approach works better because:
- It saves money compared to constantly buying new medications.
- It helps them feel more in control of their health.
- It improves their overall quality of life and well-being.
- Peace of Mind: No more worrying about it.
But don’t just take my word for it. My patient 82-year-old Kevin whispered, “Suzanne, my sex is fantastic but some nights I think I’m gonna have a heart attack doing it!” I was truly at a loss for words.
Mission accomplished!
In conclusion, achieving stable blood pressure has led to numerous benefits, from reduced risk of serious health issues to improved daily energy and quality of life. It does seem like a no-brainer, right?
**This article is for educational purposed only and not to be used as medical adive. Never change your medication or treatment plans without first consulting your own physician. It is critical that you do this because only your doctor knows your personal health and what is best for you.
