The careers that increase blood pressure
Prof. Dr. Özlem Esen, the head of the Department of Cardiology at the University School of Medicine, stated that professionals in high-stress jobs are at a higher risk of developing hypertension.
Head of the Department of Cardiology at the University School of Medicine, Prof. Dr. Özlem Esen, described hypertension as a lifestyle disease. She stated that stress and dietary habits are among the causes of hypertension. Prof. Dr. Özlem Esen noted that hypertension is one of the most common causes of death, but it is not well-known by the general public. She explained that patients with high blood pressure often do not feel any symptoms, and it can only be detected through proper measurement.
Prof. Dr. Esen emphasized that accurate blood pressure measurement should be taken while sitting in a calm and relaxed position, using digital devices or traditional blood pressure monitors. She recommended measuring from both arms and monitoring the highest reading when using digital devices.
Prof. Dr. Esen also pointed out the phenomenon called "masked hypertension," which occurs in 15-20% of cases. In this situation, patients may experience lower blood pressure when visiting a doctor due to feeling comfortable in the medical environment. However, the patient's blood pressure may silently increase over time, leading to damage that may only become apparent when examining internal organs. This condition is not related to a specific virus or bacteria but is often associated with a high-stress lifestyle, common among professionals such as those working in the financial sector.
She noted that anxiety disorders can also raise blood pressure, as was observed during the earthquake period when many people experienced temporary spikes in blood pressure due to anxiety and distress. However, these individuals did not become permanent hypertension patients afterward.
Furthermore, Prof. Dr. Esen highlighted that the likelihood of developing hypertension increases to 90% as one gets older. She explained that blood vessels lose collagen and elasticity with age, causing the blood to collide with stiffened vessel walls, ultimately leading to high blood pressure.
She also mentioned that human blood vessels were designed to function with a blood pressure of 12/8, and once blood pressure rises above that level, various impairments begin to occur in the body. She clarified that a blood pressure of 13-14 doesn't lead to death, but after about ten years, it may cause kidney issues, eye problems, and heart vascular diseases. High blood pressure may not even cause discomfort in individuals who have a blood pressure of 15/9, as the brain adapts to maintain normal blood flow to the brain, which makes people feel fine. For this reason, controlling blood pressure by reducing it to the ideal range should be done gradually to allow individuals to adapt more comfortably.
Regarding home remedies, it's commonly believed that drinking a mixture of lemon and cold water may help reduce a sudden spike in blood pressure and has diuretic effects. Mixing ayran (buttermilk) with soda is the quickest way to raise low blood pressure. However, Prof. Dr. Esen emphasized that while these remedies can be helpful for mild cases, they should not replace regular medication, and the regular use of prescribed blood pressure medication is crucial.
Prof. Dr. Esen pointed out that blood pressure medication needs to be taken continuously throughout a person's life because the effect of one dose lasts only about 24 hours. For those who take blood pressure medication consistently, only about 50% achieve the target blood pressure (usually around 12/8). Additionally, it is challenging to maintain compliance with medication for many individuals. After the initiation of medication, patients with hypertension should undergo frequent check-ups as this is a disease that requires continuous monitoring.
Prof. Dr. Esen suggested that eating red grapes, strawberries, and cherries can be beneficial in regulating blood pressure because these fruits contain anthocyanin, which is known to have blood pressure-lowering properties. She recommended eating these fruits in controlled portions at certain times of the day.
Furthermore, Prof. Dr. Esen emphasized that people should avoid excessive consumption of watermelon, especially in combination with cheese, as the combination can lead to fluid retention, which may increase blood pressure. She recommended consuming no more than two or three small slices of watermelon in one serving.
Lycopene, a compound found in tomatoes, was also mentioned by Prof. Dr. Esen. She explained that lycopene becomes active when exposed to heat, particularly when cooked with olive oil. Therefore, consuming cooked tomatoes with olive oil is a heart-healthy choice, especially when part of a Mediterranean diet.
Prof. Dr. Esen concluded by recommending a diet rich in fiber for people with hypertension. Fiber helps clean the intestines, promotes regular bowel movements, and prevents the prolonged contact of food with the intestinal walls, which can lead to salt absorption. She also suggested chewing fruits, especially berries, thoroughly, as this aids in the absorption of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.