Hypertension is caused when blood pressure is on a higher level than normal range. It causes the heart to pump more and frequently. Experts warn that hypertension can be dangerous. Individuals with hypertension may experience heart health problems due to extra pressure on the heart to pump more blood. It is important to visit a medical professional and get overall health checked, because hypertension may sometimes not show symptoms. 

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr M. Hanumantha Reddy Consultant Interventional Cardiologist CARE Hospitals Banjara Hills Hyderabad explained the link between sleep and hypertension and listed some sleep management tips. 

Sleep And Hypertension

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), some symptoms that can be experienced include headaches, chest pain, tiredness, vomiting, nausea, difficulty breathing, nosebleeds, confusion, anxiety and blurred vision among a few. There is a direct relationship between hypertension and sleep. As per a few sources, individuals with fewer hours of sleep are more prone to developing hypertension. Apart from the duration, the quality of sleep is also an important factor in developing high blood pressure. For better health, some recommended steps include: 

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1. Sleep and wake up at a similar time to maintain your sleep cycle. This will also allow the body to get enough rest and feel more refreshed. A regular sleep cycle will also help in improving the quality of sleep experienced by an individual.

Hypertension And Sleep (Image Credits: Canva)

2. Practice stress management techniques to help relax your body. Take up yoga or meditation classes to reduce stress on the body. One can also practise deep breathing techniques, journaling, or light stretching exercises before going to bed. Relaxing your mind before sleeping is an optimal step to get good sleep.

3. Diet is another important factor to consider, as an unhealthy diet full of junk, highly processed, salty foods can increase blood pressure. Try adding more vegetables, fruits, superfoods or other clean food items to support overall well-being.

4. The environment where an individual sleeps can also affect the sleep cycle. Go for dark, cold and quiet rooms that help induce sleep. One can also listen to light music or practice sleeping exercises.

5. Get some physical activity like walking, pilates, swimming, etc. One can also opt for playing sports such as badminton, football, cricket or others to move the muscles.

6. Check with a medical professional for any diagnosis, or test to be carried out to determine this condition. Follow medical advice and medications prescribed by them.

7. People with sleep disorders like insomnia may require medical assistance to treat the condition. Treatment or therapy will provide better sleep and reduce the risk of hypertension.

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