Blood Pressure Still High? Experts Warn Five Common Mistakes Could Be Keeping It Uncontrolled

Islamabad: If your blood pressure remains high despite taking medication, the cause may not only be genetics or ineffective treatment. Health experts say several common daily habits can prevent blood pressure from coming under control.

According to medical experts, high blood pressure (hypertension) is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it can damage the heart, brain, kidneys, and other vital organs without causing noticeable symptoms.

Experts recommend avoiding the following five common mistakes to help manage hypertension effectively:

1. Overlooking Hidden Salt in Processed Foods
Reducing table salt alone is not enough. Processed foods such as bread, instant noodles, canned soups, pickles, papad, and many ready-to-eat breakfast items often contain high levels of sodium, which can significantly raise blood pressure.

2. Not Getting Enough Potassium
Potassium helps the body eliminate excess sodium and relaxes blood vessels. Eating too few leafy green vegetables, fresh fruits, and whole grains may make it more difficult to keep blood pressure under control.

3. Measuring Blood Pressure Incorrectly at Home
Checking blood pressure immediately after climbing stairs, during stress, or while sitting with crossed legs can produce inaccurate readings. Experts advise sitting quietly for at least five minutes before measuring, keeping both feet flat on the floor, supporting the arm at heart level, and avoiding conversation during the measurement.

4. Ignoring Chronic Stress
Long-term stress increases the production of stress hormones, causing the heart to beat faster and blood vessels to narrow. This can contribute to persistently elevated blood pressure.

5. Not Getting Enough Sleep
Blood pressure naturally falls by about 10 to 20 percent during deep sleep. Sleeping fewer than six hours a night may prevent the body from getting this restorative benefit, increasing the risk of hypertension.

Health experts emphasize that medication alone is often not enough to control high blood pressure. A balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management, regular physical activity, and a healthy lifestyle are all essential for effective long-term blood pressure control.

Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Readers are encouraged to consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any health concerns or treatment decisions.