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29 March 2008

Home Remedies for ACIDITY

Home Remedies for ACIDITY
Acidity may be defined as sour or burning sensation in the chest, which is caused by regurgitation of the excessive acid secretion into the upper end of the esophagus.

It is advisable to chew the food properly and drink lot of water for proper digestion and absorption. Pregnant women suffer from heartburn as the uterus presses on the digestive tract as the fetus grows.

Normally the stomach secretes an acid, which is essential for the digestion. This acid helps in the breakdown of the food. When there is excessive secretion of this acid by the stomach it results in acidity. Its common symptoms are dyspepsia, heartburn and formation of the ulcers. It is more common in emotional and nervous individuals.

This is caused due to excessive secretion of hydrochloric acid, either from an increased quantity of the gastric juice or increased concentration of hydrochloric acid in it.

Other reason for this may be fermentation of organic acids such as lactic acid, acetic acid and butyric acid. Increased acidity with regurgitation causes some amount of oesophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), which increases the sensitiveness. Acidity causes reflex increased secretion of alkaline saliva, which accumulates in the esophagus and is rushed into the mouth without any sensation of vomiting. This is commonly associated with duodenal ulcer.

Causes of hyperacidity are gastro duodenal (peptic) ulcer; reflex pylorospasm from any cause and sometimes-excessive smoking can also lead to severe acidity. The amount of free hydrochloric acid in the stomach does not gives the measure of the total acidity of gastric secretions i.e. amount of total chlorides indicates the better.

Most acidity problems occur after meals, when doing some heavy exercise and applying pressure in the intra-abdominal region or at night when lying down.

What is ACIDITY?
The stomach normally secretes acid that is essential in the digestive process. This acid helps in breaking down the food during digestion. When there is excess production of acid by the gastric glands of the stomach, it results in the condition known as acidity. Dyspepsia, heartburn and the formation of ulcers are some of the symptoms. It is more common in highly emotional and nervous individuals.


Common Causes of Acidity
Consumption of Alcohol
Highly spicy foodstuffs
Non-vegetarian diets
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID's)
Most acidity problems occur
After meals
When lifting weight or straining and applying pressure in the intra-abdominal area.
At night when lying down.
Ulcers also occur as a result of over secretion of acid.

Home Remedies for Acidity
Tip 1:After all three meals, take a small piece of jaggery and keep it in your mouth and suck. Voilá no more acidity.Tip 2: Boil one cup of water. To this add 1 tsp of Aniseed (Saunf). Cover and leave overnight. Strain the water in the morning, add 1 tsp of honey. When this is taken 3 times a day it prevents acidity.Tip 3: To 1 ½ liters of water add 1 tsp Caraway seeds (shah jeera). Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Sip while warm. Have the concoction 2-3 times a day for 5-6 days.Tip 4: Powder one clove and one cardamom; use the powder as a mouth freshener after every meal. No more acidity and no more bad breath.

Other home remedies for acidity:
Drinking milk or eating milk products are helpful in relieving symptoms of acidity.
Foods such as pickles, vinegar, fried foods, hot spicy foods, chocolate, pastries, and raw salad vegetables like onion, radish, cabbage, and peppers should be avoided.
Clove also helps to relieve the symptoms of acidity. Suck one piece of clove slowly to relieve the symptoms. It also helps to reduce the onset of disease that arises due to acidity.
A cup of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk also helps to get relieve heartburn and acidity within minutes.
Almonds are also a good source for relieving the heartburn and acidity. Eat several almonds when heartburn symptoms persist.
Lemons also help to prevent heartburn. Cut a lemon into thin strips and dip in salt. Eat before meals to prevent heartburn.
Take some mint leaves and chop these and then boil in a cup of water and sip slowly after meals. If a person drinks Fresh mint juice every day he will never experience acidity.
Jaggery or gur taken after every meal also helps to reduce the acidity. Keep a piece of gur in the mouth and slowly suck it till acidity decreases.
Eating bananas is also helpful in preventing the symptoms of acidity and heartburn. To prevent acidity it is advised to eat a banana daily.
A mixture of 2 tsp of natural apple cider vinegar and 2 tsp raw honey in a glass of water before meals fights with acidity.
Basil (tulsi) leaves helps to get relief from burning, nausea and gas. Chew some leaves of tulsi to decrease the acidity.
Coconut water 4-5 times a day decreases the symptoms of the acidity and the heartburn.
Harad (Terminalia chebula) if taken after every meal prevents the symptoms of the acidity.
1 tsp juice of chebulic myroblan mixed with 1 tsp of amla (Indian gooseberry) juice helps to prevent acidity and heartburn.
Another very effective home remedy for acidity is - Boil one cup of water. To this add 1 tsp of Aniseed (Saunf). Cover and leave overnight. Strain the water in the morning, add 1 tsp of honey. When this is taken 3 times a day it prevents acidity.
To 1 ½ liters of water add 1 tsp Caraway seeds (shah jeera). Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Sip while warm. Take this liquid 2-3 times a day for 5-6 days. This is also very effective home remedy for acidity.
Take a glass of water, add a pinch of baking soda and drink it. It gives immediate relief from acidity.
Take a glass of warm water, add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) and have it every morning to prevent acidity.
Eat a serving of cucumber or watermelon 4-5 times in a day to fight against acidity.
Fennel helps to relieve abdominal pain, colon disorders, gas, and gastrointestinal tract spasms. It is an effective remedy for acidic stomach conditions (heartburn).
Ginger is very useful for digestive disorders. It help to relieve indigestion from rich foods.
Make a fine powder by adding equal amounts of ginger powder, black pepper, dried mint leaves, asafetida (hing), anise seeds, coriander seeds, cumin, fennel and common salt. Dosage: Take about 1 teaspoon of this powder with water, twice a day after meals.
It is advised to eat 8-10 glass to water daily. Drinking water gives immediate relief to symptoms like wind, distended stomach and acidity.
Chewing bubble-gum also disappears the acidity. This is an easy and best way to get rid of Acidity.
For heartburn drink a teaspoon of vinegar. It is because there is not sufficient acid in our stomach to digest food properly, thus gasses come back up and burn our stomach.
Calcium also helps to fight with the heartburn and acidity. Yoghurt or ice-cream gives immediate relief from acidity and heartburn.
1 tsp juice of chebulic myroblan mixed with 1 tsp of amla (Indian gooseberry) juice daily relieves acidity.
Powder one clove and one cardamom; use the powder as a mouth freshener after every meal. No more acidity and no more bad breathe.
After food maintain an upright posture to prevent the reflex and to prevent the symptoms of acidity.
Sleep with your head and shoulder on a high pillow for elevation.
Do not skip meals. Do not keep large gap between meals. This produces gas / wind.
Eat dinner 2-3 hours before going to bed. Last but not the least stop smoking and cut down on alcohol.
K.V.Vighnesh
Chennai
mbl: 9444961820

Home Remedies for SKIN ALLERGY

Home Remedies for SKIN ALLERGY
SKIN ALLERGY
Clear skin is free from germs. But an irritated skin is a cause of trouble. Chafing of the skin is more likely to occur where two moist areas meet, such as in the groins or buttocks, or under the arms. Skin reactions are more common today due to many new fabrics in use. Babies often develop skin rashes because of irritation from the coloring materials in these fabrics.

Allergies are abnormal or hypersensitive responses of the Immune System to relatively harmless environmental antigens (substance which causes the allergy).

Diaper rash usually arises from some chemical irritation due to certain germs present in the baby’s stool. These germs break down the urea into ammonia, which irritates the skin.

Allergic conditions, such as Hay fever and sinusitis are also greatly aggravated by the presence of the germs within the tissues of the nose and throat. The most common allergens are grass and tree pollens, mold spores, dust mites, and animal dander. Eating certain foods and food additives and being stung by insects can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people. Such common disorders as eczema, hives, hay fever and asthma are often attributed to allergic reactions.

The most common cause of the skin allergies is impairment in the immune sysytem, which increases the risk of allergic reactions. This occurs due to stress on the immune system due to excess of the toxins.

Other causes of the skin allergies are the nutritional deficiencies, imbalanced diet, chemicals in the food chain due to preservatives and chronic intestinal yeast overgrowth.

Researchers have found that digestion also plays some role in the allergies. These are not just caused by the food. Proper digestion helps to remove toxins from our body. When digestion is disturbed, large amount of toxins get accumulated in the body and our body becomes over loaded with the toxins. This is what leads to allergies.

Itching is an unpleasant sensation, which we try to relieve by scratching. A certain amount of mild itching is normal for every one. Only if it is persistent and troublesome it becomes serious. Persistent scratching may produce swellings in the skin with deep scratch marks and small ulcers into which germs have found their way, causing much more trouble.

Allergies in general are defined as hypersensitivity to some foreign particle or the other. Different people have different kinds of tolerances for foreign bodies. When some people cannot adjust with certain elements in their surroundings, they may suffer from certain skin problems that are commonly referred to as skin allergies.

There is a sure way of determining whether your skin affliction is an allergy or not. If you have got a skin problem due to a cause that has affected no one else, then it is an allergic reaction. For example, several people may be exposed to dust. But if it affects you in a strong way, then you are allergic to dust.

Skin allergies could be in the form of itching, dry and scaly skin, eruptions, rashes, boils, etc. There are three main types of problems that are associated with skin allergies.

These types are as follows:-

(i) Dermatitis – This is the skin allergy which is caused due to contact with some substances. It is shown as an inflammation.

(ii) Hives – Hives is a fluid accumulation in the skin which shows up as a swelling. This is a temporary condition and heals with treatment. Hives are also known as urticaria.

(iii) Prickly Heat – This is a red rash which occurs on the body. Prickly heat is generally caused due to excessive perspiration due to hot and humid climates.

All skin problems are vata dosha disorders. Vata dosha controls the air element of the human body. Hence, when the vata dosha is vitiated, there are skin reactions. In different people, there are different degrees of the vata dosha. In some people, the vata may be weak and get easily vitiated due to external factors. Such people are more specific to skin allergies than others.

In this article, we see how to treat various skin allergies with an Ayurvedic point of view.
HOME REMEDIES FOR SKIN ALLERGIES
Grind 1 tbls of poppy seeds with 1-teaspoon water. Add 1-teaspoon limejuice. Apply to affected area for relief from skin allergies.
Add 1-teaspoon limejuice with sandalwood paste. Apply to affected skin allergy area
Avoid the foods, plants, animals, drugs, dust, or other substances that trigger an allergic reaction.
Smoking exacerbates allergic reactions. Those who are allergic to MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) should avoid smoking.
Vitamin C is very helpful in fighting with the allergic reactions.
Avoid white sugar, and everything made with it. The process of chemically whitening sugar is toxic.
Avoid bleached flours, and everything made with it.
Avoid all processed foods, including the frozen pre-packaged types.
Avoid the processes meat.
Thoroughly wash all fresh fruits and vegetables in warm water
Eat whole foods, and prepare your meals at home using fresh, natural products.
Prepare an eating schedule. It may be that 3 large meals per day or 4 or 5 smaller ones will be better.
Regularly practice juice fasting. This will cleanse your system of toxins and residues.
Avoid smoking and heavy alcohol consumption. Heavy coffee consumption is to be avoided ( 1 or 2 regular cups per day is not considered harmful )
Avoid fried foods and foods cooked in oil to prevent skin allergies. When oil is heated to cooking temperatures it begins to break down and has been identified as a carcinogen.
Regularly try to do regiment of moderate exercise, such as walking, biking or swimming and strive to live in harmonious surroundings that contribute to inner peace.
Rub an ice cube gently over the affected area. This cools the skin, reduces inflammation and soothes the itch immediately.
Pour boiling water over a bowl of oats. Cover the bowl and leave for 10 minutes. Strain the oats away and pour the liquid into an ice cube tray. Freeze the oat liquid to form oat cubes. To relieve itch, rub and frozen oat cube gently over the affected area.
Apply aloe Vera gel on the affected areas. It will sooth the areas and gives a cooling effect.
Take 2 cups water, ½ teaspoon each Echinacea root and marshmallow root,1 teaspoon chamomile flowers, ½ teaspoon peppermint leaf and ¼ teaspoon ginger rhizome. Combine water and Echinacea and marshmallow roots in a saucepan and simmer for about 5 minutes. Turn off heat and add remaining ingredients. Steep for 15 minutes, then strain out herbs. For a 50-pound child, give 1 to 2 cups daily.This is an effective home remedy for skin allergy.
Take 1 cup boiling water,1 teaspoon each calendula flowers, chamomile flowers, Echinacea root, elder flowers and yarrow flowers, 3 tablespoons baking soda. Pour boiling water over herbs and steep for 15 minutes, then strain out herbs. Stir in baking soda. Apply to irritated skin with a soft cloth or a sponge until itching is reduced. This is also an effective home remedy for skin allergy.
Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily.
- Take about 30 milliliters of the juice of the leaves of wood apple (Feronia limonida) and mix some cumin powder in it. Take this twice daily. This is a very good treatment for urticaria or hives.
- Extract the juice of the jambula (Indian Plum) and mix some soda in it. Apply this in case of prickly heat.
- In hot seasons, drink a glass of lemon juice twice everyday. This will supplement the vitamin C content of the body lost due to perspiration and will prevent the outburst of prickly heat.
- Chomping on sugarcane several times in the hot season is also a good method of preventing prickly heat.
- If the area on the skin is exceptionally itchy, then mash a papaya and spread the paste of the papaya on it. This will reduce the itch and also make the skin healthier.

Useful Herbs in the Treatment of Skin Allergies
- Cassia (Cassia fistula)
Cassia is used effectively in the treatment of several irritations on the skin caused due to allergies. A paste of the cassia leaves can be applied on the skin in case of inflammation of the hands and feet caused due to extreme cold, and also swellings caused due to accumulation of fluids under the skin, as in hives.

- Henna (Lawsonia inermis)
Henna is an excellent remedy for several skin allergies. It can be used in case of hives, swellings, boils and other kinds of inflammation. Applying henna on the skin cools the skin and removes the symptom of the allergy.

- Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) (tulasi)
The holy basil is venerated in Indian tradition as the tulsi. It has an almost maternal status for the Hindus. This plant is venerated for its many medicinal properties. Among the other advantages, tulsi is also used for healing skin problems. In case of itches and rashes, the juice of the tulsi leaves is applied on the skin. This is a very quick treatment for allergic skin problems.

- Madhuca (Madhuca indica)
Madhuca is used as a treatment for skin itch problems. The leaves are made into a paste and applied onto the skin in skin infections due to allergy.

- Rauwolfia (Rauwolfia serpentina)
Rauwolfia is known as sarpagandha in Ayurveda. It is a very good remedy for skin problems. In case of hives, the juice of its leaves is applied on the swollen parts to reduce itching. Relief is almost immediate.

- Sandalwood (Santalum alba)
Sandalwood is a traditional remedy for all kinds of itch problems on the skin. It is made into a paste and applied on the skin. It smoothes the skin and prevents it from allergies. Itches are immediately resolved by applying sandalwood paste on the skin. Permanent relief can be obtained by keeping the paste smeared on the skin for half an hour before washing it off. Sandalwood oil is also used in the treatment of diseases such as erysipelas (an eruptive allergic skin disease) and prurigo (an itchy skin eruption).

Dietary Guidelines for Treatment of Skin Allergies
You must take a lot of water to prevent all kinds of skin allergies. These include fresh fruits and vegetables that have high water content in them. In the summer season, take cooling drinks such as lemon juices and sherbets.
Do not consume sour foods if you have skin allergy problems often. This can vitiate the vata dosha further.
K.V.Vighnesh
Chennai
mbl: 9444961820
Ayurvedic cure available contact

Home Remedies for ITCHING

Home Remedies for ITCHING
ITCHING

Itching can be best described as a peculiar tingling or uneasy irritation of the skin that creates a desire to scratch the affected area. Itching is a common problem faced by many people at some or the other point in life. Itching could be the result of a variety of reasons such as allergies (to food, plants or pets), insect bites, stings, skin disease or even poor hygiene. Itching can be annoying as the skin is irritated and gives you the constant need to scratch the affected area. Constant or repeated scratching can bruise the skin, making it sore and even painful. Itching could be generalized where in the whole body is affected or localized wherein a particular area is irritated.

Red spots,Scaly patches
Tendency to scratch continually to relieve itching sensationRedness of skinScraped skin as a result of vigorous scratchingProlonged scratching and rubbing can result in thick and scarred skinRed spotsScaly patchesBlisters
Dry skin is a common cause for itching
Itching can be caused by a plethora of reasons. Some of the most common causes for itching include -Exposure or contact with chemicals.Sunburn can cause itching.Insect bites or stings.Certain infectious diseases such as chicken pox cause itching on the skin.Parasites on the body such as body, head or pubic lice can cause itching. Itching can be the result of an allergic reaction to certain foods, plants or pets. Dry skin is a common cause for itching. This is usually seen in older people as aging skin is often dehydrated. Cold weather, overexposure to water and hot baths typically cause itching. An unfavorable medication could cause itching as a reaction. Itching can happen during the later part of pregnancy due to the stretching of the skin especially on the lower abdomen area. Skin conditions such as Psoriasis, Seborrheic dermatitis, Urticaria, Pityriasis rosea can cause severe itching.


Use of weak carbolic acid lotion
Itching caused due to non-medical conditions can to a great extent be treated using home remedies. Some that can be used to control or treat itching are as follows -Take a bath in one can of evaporated milk; you can add other combinations such as oatmeal, baking soda etc. The milk works well to soothe the itching.Apply Aloe Vera, cod liver oil, lemon juice, vitamin E oil, wheat germ oil, or witch hazel tea to the itchy area. Take burdock, chickweed, goldenseal, plantain, or yellow dock in capsule form. Cornstarch helps relieve itching. You can pour some into your bath water or dust it onto your body. Scrub the affected area lightly with a pumice stone. Then wash with soap, apply rubbing alcohol, and dab a thick layer of Vaseline over it. This will provide relief from itching. Take a bath with a little peppermint or yellow dock to relieve itching. Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to your bath water to relieve itchy skin. Baking soda can be used in cool bath water to soothe other skin irritations and alleviate itching from prickly heat, bee stings, insect bites, and other minor skin ailments. Another trusted home remedy is to use a weak carbolic acid lotion or a solution of bicarbonate of soda (commonly known as baking soda) and applying it over the itchy part. Apply cold compress to the itchy areas, it is thought to bring relief from itching. Fresh stinging nettle oil can be used on the affected areas. Drinking 1 to 2 cups of Nettle tea daily is thought to help relieve itching. Add boiling water to 1 tsp of the dried leaves for each cup. Steep for 15 minutes. Apply Burdock root oil to the skin to help heal rashes and itching. Fresh Chickweed poultice is good for itching. This can be made by soaking 2 large handfuls in water. When the plants soften, cool them and apply directly on the skin.

Take a diet rich in Vitamin C,beta-carotene,Vitamin E and zinc
Diet can play an important role to combat itching that result from food allergies. If you have identified foods that cause itching, it’s best to avoid them completely. Increase your intake of Vitamin C, beta-carotene, Vitamin E and zinc through diet by having foods rich in the above mentioned vitamins and minerals.

Avoid scartching or rubbing
Avoid scratching or rubbing itchy areas as this worsens the problem. Keep finger nails short to prevent skin damage from scratching. Wear loose, light and cool nightwear. Do not use thick, rough clothing like wool over itchy areas. Take bath with lukewarm water. Apply a soothing lotion on to the skin after bath. Avoid exposure to heat and humidity. Keep your body and affected areas dry and clean at all times. Moisture can worsen itching.
K.V.Vighnesh
chennai
9444961820

Home Remedies for CLEAR & SOFT SKIN

Home Remedies for CLEAR & SOFT SKIN
There are few things more frustrating than blemished skin, so consider turning to these easy home remedies for clear skin instead of harsh and expensive skin care creams and washes. Especially if you have sensitive skin, you will most likely find that over the counter and prescription skin care products are too strong and can potentially add to the problem with your skin. Furthermore, a trip down any grocery store or drug store aisle will produce an overwhelming number of skin care products that can easily rack up a hefty bill. Instead, save your skin in addition to saving a few bucks by whipping up a quick and easy skin care remedy out of items that are probably already in your home. * Clear Your Skin From Within * Remember the old saying, you are what you eat? Although the adage has been around for years, the advice is completely up to date. If you find yourself suffering from acne or other skin blemishes, take a look of your body from the inside out. Your body notifies you when something is off balance, especially when you are lacking the proper nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. This notification can likely express itself in the appearance of blemishes. Instead of slathering your skin with items from the beauty aisle, take a walk down the rest of the aisle in your grocery store in order to experience a regeneration of your skin. Eating a well-rounded, healthy diet is incredibly important. Be sure to include lots of fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet, as the nutrients provided by these items are critical. Furthermore, drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water each day to ensure that your skin remains well hydrated. * Skip The Drug Store And Head To The Kitchen * Read any label of skin care product available on the retail market and you may find your tummy rumbling. These skin care products are packed with edible ingredients, from oatmeal to honey to avocado to cucumber.
Instead of buying these expensive, heavily preserved creams, lotions, and potions, consider making the alternative mixtures yourself. Look no further than your kitchen for many fantastic home remedies for clear skin. When you see a zit pop up, avoid the urge to squeeze! Instead, dab a bit of lemon juice on a cotton swab and apply to the affected area. The acid in the lemon juice will help extract any infection and your will avoid adding more bacteria to the mix by keeping your hands off your skin. Since one of the main problems associated with skin blemishes is dead skin cells, exfoliation is critical. Instead of spending big bucks on fancy bottles and containers of exfoliants, grab a canister of old fashioned oatmeal. Mix with water and scrub your skin clean.
The gentleness of the oatmeal is perfect for even the most sensitive skin and the grainy consistency will remove any dead skin cells before they have a problem. You probably use toothpaste with baking soda for whitening your teeth, so why not use the same product to clear up your skin? Each night, wash your face with baking soda and water. This mixture is perfect for keeping your skin clean and dry. The basic property of the baking soda works to dry up the excess oils that typically cause skin blemishes. If a pimple rears its ugly head then you should head immediately to your stove. Mix ground nutmeg with milk and boil. After the concoction is completely cooled, apply to the affected area and let dry overnight. Wash the yummy mixture off your face in the morning and you will be surprised by the results!
K.V.Vighnesh
Chennai

Home Remedies for COMMON COLD ---RUNNING NOSE

Home Remedies for COMMON COLD ---RUNNING NOSE
COMMON COLD / RUNNING NOSE

A common cold, also known as acute coryza, is an inflammation of the upper respiratory tract caused by infection with common cold viruses. A common cold occurs more often than any other disease - hence, its name. A person may suffer from a common fold several times in a year. A cold usually lasts from three to ten days. The patient feels miserable for the first three days or so.

Common Cold Symptoms
Soreness of throat, congestion of nasal passages
The initial signs of a cold are a feeling of soreness of the throat and congestion of the nasal passages. Although the disease normally begins in the nose and throat, it affects all parts of the body.
Running nose, Sneezing, headache, chill
Its usual symptoms are a running nose, sneezing, a rise in temperature, headache, sore throat, chill, aches and pains in the body, and loss of appetite. The skin around the nostrils may become sore.
Causes of Common Cold
Exposure to the virus
A common cold results from exposure to the virus. Its intensity, however, depends upon the state of health of the person and environmental factors.
Exposure to cold, low vitality, dust, changes in temperature
Low vitality, exposure to cold, lack of sleep, mental depression, fatigue, and factors such as sudden changes in temperature, dust, and other irritating inhalations are important contributory causes.

Common Cold Home Remedies
Common Cold treatment using Lemon
Lemon is the most important among the many home remedies for common cold. It is beneficial in all types of cold with fever. Vitamin C-rich lemon juice increases body resistance, decreases toxicity and reduces the duration of the illness. One lemon should be diluted in a glass of warm water, and a teaspoon of honey should be added to it. This should be taken once or twice daily.
Common Cold treatment using Garlic
Garlic soup is an old remedy to reduce the severity of a cold, and should be taken once daily. The soup can be prepared by boiling three or four cloves of chopped garlic in a cup of water. Garlic contains antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, besides several other medicinal virtues. The oil contained in this vegetable helps to open up the respiratory passages. In soup form, it flushes out all toxins from the system and thus helps bring down fever. Five drops of garlic oil combined with a teaspoon of onion juice, and diluted in a cup of water, should be drunk two to three times a day. This has also been found to be very effective in the treatment of common cold.
Common Cold treatment using Ginger
Ginger is another excellent remedy for colds and coughs. About ten grams of ginger should be cut into small pieces and boiled in a cup of water. It should then be strained and half a teaspoon of sugar added to it. This decoction should be drunk when hot. Ginger tea, prepared by adding a few pieces of ginger into boiled water before adding the tea leaves, is also an effective remedy for colds and for fevers resulting from cold. It may be taken twice daily.
Common Cold treatment using Lady's Fingers
Lady's fingers are highly valuable in treating irritation of the throat and a persistent dry cough. This vegetable is rich in mucilage and acts as a drug to allay irritation, swelling, and pain. About 100 gm of lady's fingers should be cut into pieces, and boiled down in half a litre of water to make a decoction. The steam issuing from this decoction may also be inhaled once or twice a day to relieve throat irritation and a dry cough.
Common Cold treatment using Bitter Gourd Roots
The roots of the bitter gourd plant are used in folk medicine to cure a cold. A teaspoon of the root paste, mixed with an equal quantity of honey or tulsi leaf juice, given once every night for a month, acts as an excellent medicine for colds.
Common Cold treatment using Turmeric
Turmeric is an effective remedy for colds and throat irritations. Half a teaspoon of fresh turmeric powder mixed in 30 ml of warm milk, and taken once or twice daily, is a useful prescription for these conditions. Turmeric powder should be put into a hot ladle. Milk should then be poured in it and boiled over a slow fire. This mixture should then be drunk by the patient. In case of a running cold, smoke from the burning turmeric should be inhaled. It will increase the discharge from the nose and provide quick relief.
Common Cold treatment using Tamarind and Pepper
Tamarind-pepper rasam is also considered an effective home remedy for a cold in South India. Dilute 50 mg tamarind in 250 ml of water. Boil the diluted tamarind water for a few minutes with a teaspoon of hot ghee and half a teaspoon of black pepper powder. This steaming hot rasam has a flushing effect, and should be taken three times a day. As one takes it, the nose and eyes water and the nasal blockage is cleared.
Common Cold treatment using Vitamin C
Regular intake of vitamin C-75 mg for adults and 35 mg for children-will prevent the common cold. If, however, a cold has already appeared, large doses of this vitamin will relieve the symptoms and shorten its duration. He estimates that one to two grams (1000 mg to 2000 mg) per day is approximately the optimum amount of this vitamin for this purpose. His advice is to swallow one or two 500mg tablets of vitamin C at the appearance of the first sign of the cold and continue the treatment by taking one to two 500 mg tablets daily.
Home Remedies for Stuffy Nose
Inhale turmeric fumes, for this tie some turmeric in a clean cloth and light it. Boil some water and allow it to cool, now add ¼ teaspoon table salt to it. Put 2 to 3 drops of this solution in your both the nostrils before meals and going to bed. Mix natural apple cider vinegar and water in equal parts. Boil this solution in a pan, when the fumes rises lean over the pan and inhale the fumes. Prepare a solution using 4 drops of Lavender Essential Oil and Pine Essential Oil, 3 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil and 7 drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil. Inhale vapors of this solution by putting it on a cotton ball or an aromatherapy diffuser.

Dietaries for Common Cold
Abstain solid foods, drink fruit and vegetable juices
During the acute stage of the cold, when fever is present, the patient should abstain from all solid foods and only drink fruit and vegetable juices, diluted with water.
Well-balanced diet of seeds, nuts
After the acute symptoms are over, the patient can gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet, consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits.
Avoid meat, fish, eggs and starchy foods
It is advisable to avoid meat, fish, eggs, cheese, and starchy foods.

Other Common Cold treatments
Mild sunbath, fresh air, deep breathing, sound sleep etc
Other useful measures in the treatment of a common cold are a mild sunbath, fresh air and deep breathing, brisk walks, sound sleep, and adjustment of one's clothes and habits to the requirements of the season so as to nullify the effect of weather fluctuations.
Ayurvedic treatment for all disease available. For best remedy please contact.
K.V.Vighnesh
Chennai
9444961820

26 March 2008

Home Remedies for GASTRITIS

Excellent Ayurvedic Treatment available

Home Remedies for GASTRITIS
GASTRITIS
Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach. The inflammatory lesions may be either acute or chronic.
Gastritis Symptoms
Nausea and vomiting
Headache
Decreased appetite
Vertigo and dizziness
Diarrhoea with decreased urination
Pain and cramps in abdomen
Foul smell from mouth.
Coated tongue
Tastelessness
Fever might be present
Loss of apetite
The main symptoms of gastritis are loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. There is pain and discomfort in the region of the stomach.
Coated tongue, bad breath
Other symptoms are a coated tongue, foul breath, bad taste in the mouth, increased flow of saliva, scanty urination, a general feeling of uneasiness, and mental depression. In more chronic cases, the patient complaints of heartburn and a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, especially after meals. Often there is constipation, but occasionally, there may be diarrhoea due to intestinal catarrah.
Gastritis Causes
Infection is the major cause in causing gastritis
Intake of unhygienic food
Eating extremely spicy and unfresh food stuff
Drinking of excess of tea and coffee
Smoking and usage if alcohol may also lead to gastritis
Use of certain medicines like antibiotics, aspirin etc.
Emotional stress and over burden of work mat also cause gastritis.
Irregular or excessive eating
The most frequent cause of gastritis is a dietetic indiscretion such as habitual overeating; eating of badly combined or improperly cooked foods; excessive intake of strong tea, coffee, or alcoholic drinks; or habitual use of large quantities of condiments and sauces.
Worry, Anxiety
Other causes include worry, anxiety, grief, and prolonged tension, use of certain drugs, strong acids, and caustic substances.

ADVISE FOR GASTRITIS
Avoid spicy and unfresh food
Tea, coffees, smoking and alcohol should be avoided
Light and home cooked food should be given preference
Stomach should not be kept empty
Over usage of medicines should be avoided
Undue stress should be avoided
Constipation should be avoided
Home remedies for Gastritis
1. Onion taken along with curd is a great remedy for gastritis
2. Cardamom fruit along with clove fruit taken thrice a day will give good results
3. Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra) powder mixed with honey and ghee (not in equal quantity) is advisable in gastritis
4. White jeera (cumin seed) taken with jaggery or honey is useful
5. Orange juice along with roasted jeera (cumin seed) and rock salt is very helpful
6. Ginger juice is also very effective in gastritis.
7. Juice of dhania leaves (Coriander sativum) gives good results in gastritis treatment.
Gastritis treatment using Coconut
Coconut water is an excellent remedy for gastritis. It gives the stomach the necessary rest and provides vitamins and minerals. The stomach is greatly helped in returning to a normal condition if nothing but coconut water is given during the first twenty-four hours.
Gastritis treatment using Rice
Rice gruel is another excellent remedy for acute cases of gastritis. One cup of rice gruel is recommended twice daily. In chronic cases where the flow of gastric juice is meagre, such foods as require prolonged vigorous mastication are beneficial as they induce a greater flow of gastric juice.
Gastritis treatment using Potato
Potato juice has been found valuable in relieving gastritis. The recommended dose is half a cup of the juice, two or three times daily, half an hour before meals.
Gastritis treatment using Marigold
The herb marigold is also considered beneficial in the treatment of gastritis. An infusion of the herb in doses of a tablespoon may be taken twice daily.
Gastritis Diet
Fasting, Water
The patient should undertake a fast for two of three days or more, depending on the severity of the condition. He should be given only warm water to drink during this period. This will give rest to the stomach and allow the toxic condition causing the inflammation to subside.
All-fruit diet
After the acute symptoms subside, the patient should adopt an all-fruit diet for the next three days and take juicy fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, grapefruit, oranges, pineapple, peaches, and melons.
Avoid alcohol, tobacco, spices, meat, sweet, strong tea/coffee
The patient should avoid the use of alcohol, tobacco, spices and condiments, meat, red pepper, sour foods, pickles, strong tea and coffee. He should also avoid sweet, pastries, rich cakes, and, aerated waters.
Have curd and cottage cheese
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cottage_cheese
Curds and cottage cheese should be used freely. Too many different foods should not be mixed at the same meal. Meals should be taken at least two hours before going to bed at night. Eight to ten glasses of water should be taken daily but water should not be taken with meals as it dilutes the digestive juices and delays digestion. Above all, haste should be avoided while eating and meals should be served in a pleasing and relaxed atmosphere.
Well-balanced diet
He may, thereafter, gradually embark upon a balanced diet consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables, and fruits.

Other Gastritis Treatment
Warm-water enema, dry-friction
From the commencement of the treatment, a warm-water enema should be used daily for about a week to cleanse the bowels.The patient should be given dry friction and a sponge daily.
Application of heat with a hot compress or hot water bottle
Application of heat with a hot compress or hot water bottle, twice a daily, either on an empty stomach or two hours after meals, will also be beneficial.
Avoid hard physical, mental work, worries.
The patient should not undertake any hard physical and mental work.He should avoid worries and mental tension.
Breathing exercises are essential
He should, however, undertake breathing and other light exercises like walking, swimming, and golf.

YOGA FOR GASTRITIS
Pranayam
Uttanpada asan
Pawanmukta asan
Bhujanga asan
Shalabha asan
Vajra asan

Excellent Ayurvedic Treatment available Contact

K.V.Vighnesh

Chennai

Mbl: 9444961820

yahoo id: kvvighnesh@yahoo.co.in

Home Remedies for DEFECTIVE VISION

Home Remedies for DEFECTIVE VISION
Myopia or short-sightedness refers to the inability to see far-off objects clearly. It is a widely prevalent condition.
Symptoms of Defective Vision
Begins with blurred vision with far-off objects
Myopia begins with blurred vision, particularly with regard to far-off objects. The blackboard at school, the screen in a cinema hall, or the TV screen may look blurred and the eyes of the sufferer may start watering due to strain.
Itching and heaviness in the eyes, mild headache
There may be itching and heaviness in the eyes, and the patient may suffer from a mild headache.
Causes of Defective Vision
Mental strain, wrong food habits and improper blood and nerve supply
The three chief causes of myopia are mental strain, wrong food habits, and improper blood and nerve supply. Mental strain puts a corresponding physical strain on the eyes, and their muscles and nerves.
Reading in dim light or too glaring a light
Other causes of this eye disorder are reading in dim light or in too glaring a light; reading in moving trains, buses or cars; watching too much television and films; and excessive reading.
Home Remedies for Defective VisionDefective Vision treatment using Vitamin A
The intake of vitamin A is of utmost importance for improving vision. The best sources of this vitamin are raw spinach, turnip tops, milk cream, cheese, butter, tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, cabbage, soya beans, green peas, fresh milk, oranges, and dates. If taken as a supplement, 25,000 IU of vitamin A are recommended daily.
Defective Vision treatment using Triphala
Triphala, the famous Ayurvedic preparation, is considered beneficial in the treatment of myopia. This preparation consists of three myrobalans, namely, embelica myrobalan (amla), chebulic myrobalan (harad), and belleric myroblan (bahera). A decoction of this preparation should be made by mixing thirty grams of Triphala in half a litre of water and should be taken by mouth and also used for washing the eyes twice a day. This will bring good results if continued for some months.
Defective Vision treatment using Liquorice
Another effective remedy for myopia is liquorice. Half a teaspoon of powder of the root, mixed with an equal quantity of honey and half the quantity of ghee, should be given twice daily with a cup of milk on an empty stomach for the treatment of this condition.
Defective Vision treatment using Chicory
The herb chicory or endive is extremely valuable in defective vision due to myopia. It contains food elements which are constantly needed by the optic system. It is one of the richest sources of vitamin A which is very useful for the eyes. The addition of juices of carrot, celery, and parsley to chicory juice makes it a highly nourishing food for the optic nerve and the muscular system. It can bring amazing results in correcting eye defects. Half a litre to one litre of this combination, taken daily, has frequently corrected eye troubles in the course of a few months to the extent that normal vision was regained, making the wearing of spectacles unnecessary. The formula proportions considered useful in this combination are 200 ml of carrot juice, 150 ml of celery juice, 75 ml of endive juice and 75 ml of parsley juice to make half a litre of this combination.
Dietaries for Defective Vision
Natural, uncooked foods which include fresh fruits
Natural, uncooked foods are the best diet for defective vision. These foods include fresh fruits such as oranges, apples, grapes, peaches, plums, cherries; green vegetables like lettuce, cabbage, spinach and turnip tops; root vegetables like potatoes, turnips, carrot, onions, and beetroots; nuts, dried fruits, and dairy products. Cereals are also necessary, but they should only be consumed sparingly. Genuine wholemeal bread is the best and most suitable.
Avoid Jams, tea, coffee, White bread, meat, eggs
Jams, cakes, pastries, white sugar, white bread, confectionery, tea, Coffee, meat, fish, and eggs play havoc with the digestion and the body and should therefore be avoided.
Other Defective Vision treatments
Sun Gazing
The subject should sit on a bench, facing the rising sun with his eyes closed, and gently sway sideways several times for ten minutes. He should then open his eyes and blink about ten times at the sun and look at some greenery.
Splashing
Plain cold water should be splashed several times over closed eyes. The closed lids should then be rubbed briskly for a minute with a clean towel. This cools the eyes and boosts blood supply.
Swinging
The subject should stand with his feet twelve inches apart, hands held loosely at his sides, his whole body and mind relaxed. He should sway his body from side to side gently, slowly, and steadily, with the heels rising alternately but not the rest of the foot. This movement may be likened to the slow moving of the pendulum of a clock. Swinging should be done in front of a window or a picture, so that the window or picture appears to be moving in the opposite direction of the swing. When facing one end of the window or object, the subject should blink once.
Wish you good healthy vision
K.V.Vighnesh
chennai
9444961820

16 Ayurvedic Healthy Tips

All disease is curable under ayurvedic method..
16 healthy Ayurvedic habits
Having a bout of indigestion?
Feeling uncomfortable after a spicy meal?Get Ahead brings you 16 practical Ayurvedic mantras to incorporate into your daily diet.
1. Instead of using plain water in beverages, use water in which cumin seeds have been soaked overnight. Cumin seeds have a cooling effect on the body and are an effective digestive.
2. Add flavour to juices by making ice cubes out of fruit juices, lemon juice and rose water. Lemon juice is an excellent source of Vitamin C while both lemon juice and rose water have a cleansing and cooling effect on the body. They blend with any fruit juice without causing any side effects, even as they enhance the flavour of the drink.
3. When making juices, use castor/ powdered sugar (colloquially known as pitti/ khada shakkar) instead of cubes or grains. Pitti/ khada shakkar is good for health as it is not processed as much as ordinary sugar. If you do not have powdered sugar, grind 250 grams of sugar in a mixer and keep handy. Use approximately one spoon of powdered sugar (seven to eight grams) per glass of any juice. It takes less time to dissolve.
4. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to dehydration, so switch to natural sweetners such as honey, raw sugar or jaggery.
5. Use glucose powder to add energy to your drink.
6. Substitute cow"s milk with soya milk. Soya milk is high in protein and adds nutritional value to your diet. Here"s how to make it.
Soak soya beans overnight in water.
Drain the water next day.
Blend the soaked beans with three cups of very hot water for three minutes.
Cool till warm to the touch and filter through a muslin cloth by squeezing.
Simmer soya milk on a stove for 20 minutes.
Stir and allow to cool.
Use it to whip up some yummy milk shakes.
7. Substitute table salt with saindhave mamak (rock salt).
8. Substitute chocolate-flavoured health drink powders like Bournvita, Complan and Horlicks with plain cocoa powder to add more nutrition value to the drink.
9. For garnishing juices, use chopped fresh fruit and dry fruits.
10. Want extra spice in your food? Use generous amounts of ground dry ginger blended with powdered sugar, chaat masala and cinnamon powder.
11. Never mix more than three types of fruits while making a juice; the combination of different fruit enzymes could cause acidity and digestion problems.
12. Citrus fruits (orange, sweet lime, grapefruit) can be consumed in combinations (say orange and sweet lime, sweet lime and grapefruit). However, citrus fruits should not be combined with any other type of fruits as their enzymes can chemically react with other types of fruit enzymes, causing allergies in extreme cases.
13. Never combine citrus fruits and milk as it leads to an undesirable curdling of milk and renders the combination futile
14. Vegetable juices (cabbage, carrot, beetroot) should preferably be diluted in the proportion of 7: 3 (vegetable juice: water).
15. Never have strong concentrated juices (unless recommended) early in the morning on an empty stomach. Dilute the juice with water and then consume it.
16. Try to drink freshly prepared fruit juices only. Juices that have been stored without preservatives for a long time undergo oxidation and lose a considerable amount of their nutritional value.
All disease is curable under ayurvedic method..

CELLULITE

CELLULITE
In layman’s language cellulite is nothing but fat cells being trapped by fibers that have formed a network. These fibers are constantly cleansed by body fluids and poor circulation retards this cleansing process. The result is disastrous. Waste materials accumulate; they slowly thicken and become hard pockets of immovable fat. This is what causes the “orange peel effect” or dimpling as it is often called. Feeling of heaviness or tightness in the legs, tenderness when pressed or massaged is common. That is the downside of cellulite. The good news is that it is not a disease or illness in the real sense of the word, but a sign that your lifestyle is unhealthy

There is no quick fix solution for cellulite reduction, and the obvious and most inexpensive way to treat cellulite is to watch what you eat and drink, and burn those calories by exercising on a regular basis. Thousands of OTC potions, creams and pills to combat cellulite have flooded the market but the fact remains that Cellulite is stubborn and refuses to budge easily. Liposuction removes the deposits of fat which lie trapped between the skin and muscle. It is a surgical procedure that is done under general anesthesia. A cannula connected to a suction pump is allowed to penetrate the skin through small incisions. Suction breaks through the layers of deposited fat. Tumescent liposuction avoids general anesthesia by using a dilute solution of lidocaine (a local anesthetic) in combination with epinephrine. This being a vasoconstrictor, loss of blood is minimal. The endermologie machine also targets cellulite. It massages affected areas with rollers and gently suctions fat molecules. As it elongates the connective fibers that hold the fat cells, toxins and water are expelled. When the machine is used on you, be prepared to have your body encased in a huge stocking.


Tri-Active Laser Dermology is a high tech new fangled massager. It uses laser technology and has 3 different functions. Like any other machine, it first breaks up fat molecules and collagen, and then smaller lasers generate new collagen making surface skin smooth. Then it offers localized cooling to prevent bruising and swelling. Micro massaging is rendered possible by cellulite hosiery that effectively massages even as you wear it thereby improving circulation and increasing lymphatic drainage. It reduces cellulite, tones the muscles and makes skin look firm. A truly promising form of cellulite treatment.Lymphatic Drainage Massage increases the functioning of the lymphatic system, and helps to remove and filter waste, toxins and excess fluids from the body. Good lymph fluid circulation prevents the fluid from solidifying and binding with collagen fibers of the fat cells. Heat and Water Treatments, which include hydrotherapy, saunas, and steam baths, help to increase circulation. This brings the toxins closer to the surface of the skin. During the process of excretion, these toxins find their way out and the pressure on the lymph system is greatly reduced. The principle involved in Hydrotherapy is pretty much the same. Baths, showers and hydro massage treatments encourage weight loss; increase circulation and boosts lymph flow. All this impedes the formation of cellulite.

25 March 2008

What is HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE?

Ayurvedic cure is available for all diseases.
high blood pressure (Hypertension)
What is high blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of how hard the blood pushes against the walls of your arteries and veins as it moves through your body. It’s normal for blood pressure to go up and down throughout the day, but if it stays up, you have high blood pressure. Another name for high blood pressure is hypertension.
When blood pressure is high, it starts to damage the blood vessels, heart, and kidneys. This can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other problems. High blood pressure is called a "silent killer'' because it doesn't usually cause symptoms while it is causing this damage.
Your blood pressure consists of two numbers: SYSTOLIC AND DIASTOLIC. Someone with a systolic pressure of 120 and a diastolic pressure of 80 has a blood pressure of 120/80, or "120 over 80."
The systolic number shows how hard the blood pushes when the heart is pumping.
The diastolic number shows how hard the blood pushes between heartbeats, when the heart is relaxed and filling with blood
.
Adults should have a blood pressure of less than 120/80. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. Many people fall into the category in between, called pre-hypertension. People with pre-hypertension need to make lifestyle changes to bring the blood pressure down and help prevent or delay high blood pressure.
What causes high blood pressure?
In most cases, doctors can't point to the exact cause. But several things are known to raise blood pressure, including being very overweight, drinking too much alcohol, having a family history of high blood pressure, eating too much salt, and getting older.
Your blood pressure may also rise if you are not very active, you don't eat enough potassium and calcium, or you have a condition called INSULIN RESISTANCE.
What are the symptoms?
High blood pressure doesn't usually cause symptoms. Most people don't know they have it until they go to the doctor for some other reason.
Without treatment, high blood pressure can damage the heart, brain, kidneys, or eyes. This damage causes problems like coronary artery disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Very high blood pressure can cause headaches, vision problems, nausea, and vomiting. Malignant high blood pressure (hypertensive crisis), which is blood pressure that rises very fast, can also cause these symptoms. Malignant high blood pressure is a medical emergency.
How is high blood pressure diagnosed?
Most people find out they have high blood pressure during a routine doctor visit. For your doctor to confirm that you have high blood pressure, your blood pressure must be at least 140/90 on three or more separate occasions. It is usually measured 1 to 2 weeks apart.
You may have to check your blood pressure at home if there is reason to think the readings in the doctor’s office aren't accurate. You may have what is called white-coat hypertension, which is blood pressure that goes up just because you're at the doctor’s office. Even routine activities, such as attending a meeting, can raise your blood pressure. So can commuting to work or smoking a cigarette.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on how high your blood pressure is, whether you have other health problems such as diabetes, and whether any organs have already been damaged. Your doctor will also consider how likely you are to develop other diseases, especially heart disease.
You can help lower your blood pressure by making healthy changes in your lifestyle. If those lifestyle changes don't work, you may also need to take pills. Either way, you will need to control your high blood pressure throughout your life.
If you have prehypertension, your doctor will likely recommend lifestyle changes. These may include losing extra weight, exercising, limiting alcohol, cutting back on salt, quitting smoking, and eating a low-fat diet that includes more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy foods.
If you have high blood pressure without any organ damage or other risk factors for heart disease, your doctor may recommend that you take medicine in addition to making lifestyle changes.
If you have high blood pressure and have some organ damage or other risk factors for heart disease, you may need to try various combinations of medicines in addition to making big lifestyle changes.
Most people take more than one pill for high blood pressure. Work with your doctor to find the right pill or combination of pills that will cause the fewest side effects.
It can be hard to remember to take pills when you have no symptoms. But your blood pressure will go back up if you don't take your medicine. Make your pill schedule as simple as you can. Plan times to take them when you are doing other things, like eating a meal or getting ready for bed.
What can you do to prevent high blood pressure?
There are six lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent high blood pressure:
Lose extra weight.
Eat less salt.
Exercise
.
Limit alcohol to 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women and lighter-weight men.
Get 3,500 mg of potassium in your diet every day. Fresh, unprocessed whole foods have the most potassium. These foods include meat, fish, nonfat and low-fat dairy products, and many fruits and vegetables.
Follow the DASH eating plan (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension). This diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products and is low in fat.
Symptoms
People with primary (essential) high blood pressure usually do not have any symptoms. Most people with high blood pressure feel fine and only find out they have high blood pressure during a routine exam or a doctor visit for another problem.
Very severe high blood pressure (160 over 100 or higher), especially if your blood pressure rises very high quickly, may lead to hypertensive crisis. Symptoms of very severe high blood pressure include:
Headaches, especially pulsating headaches behind the eyes that occur early in the morning.
Visual disturbances.
Nausea and vomiting
.
Over time, untreated high blood pressure can damage organs, such as the heart, kidneys, or eyes. This may lead to:
Chest pain (angina), heart attack, or heart failure.
Stroke.
Kidney (renal) failure.
Peripheral arterial disease.
Eye damage (retinopathy).

Abnormal heartbeat.
Cause
Many different factors are linked to high blood pressure, including obesity; drinking 3 or more alcoholic beverages a day; high salt intake; aging; a sedentary lifestyle; stress; low potassium, magnesium, and calcium intake; and resistance to insulin.1 , 2
Primary, or essential, high blood pressure accounts for 95% of all cases of hypertension.3 Secondary high blood pressure, which is caused by another disease or medication, is less common.
Elevated blood pressure readings may not always mean that you have high blood pressure. For some people, just being in a medical setting causes their blood pressure to rise. This is called white-coat hypertension.
Endocrine disorders and secondary high blood pressure
Your endocrine system is a network of glands located throughout your body that produce and release various hormones into your bloodstream. These hormones act as chemical "messengers" that make your body perform various functions. For example, your body releases certain hormones (such as adrenaline/epinephrine) when it is under stress and needs more blood and oxygen. Hormones play a significant role in controlling your blood pressure because they send messages controlling your heart's output of blood, the stiffness of your arteries, and changes in your blood volume. Such secondary hypertension is very rare. The following chart outlines the most common hormonal causes of secondary hypertension.
Endocrine disorders and high blood pressure
Type of hormonal disorder
What happens
How it causes hypertension
Hyperaldosteronism

Excess production of aldosterone (a hormone that regulates salt and water balance in your kidneys) may be caused by overactivity of the adrenal glands or a tumor of the adrenal glands.
Your kidneys retain too much salt and water while eliminating potassium.
Cushing’s disease
Overproduction of cortisol (the major hormone produced by the adrenal glands) caused by pituitary gland growth
Your kidneys retain too much salt and water while eliminating potassium.
Pheochromocytoma
A rare type of tumor that produces chemicals that resemble some of your own hormones (epinephrine and norepinephrine, which constrict your blood vessels)
Constricts your blood vessels and increases cardiac output during contraction
Excess growth hormone
Your pituitary gland directs the formation and distribution of too much growth hormone.
Growth hormone promotes increases in blood volume through the retention of salt and water in your kidneys.
Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism develops when there is too much thyroid hormone circulating in the body. Hypothyroidism develops when there is too little thyroid hormone in the body.
Hyperthyroidism may increase the force of heart contractions. Hypothyroidism may increase the resistance of blood vessels.

Menopause and high blood pressure: What's the connection?
Does menopause affect blood pressure?
Yes. Blood pressure increases after menopause and so does the risk of high blood pressure.
There has been some debate about whether these changes in blood pressure are truly due to menopause or are a consequence of age and weight gain. But after taking these factors into account, researchers have found that postmenopausal women are at higher risk of high blood pressure than are premenopausal women. This suggests that estrogen may play a protective role in blood pressure.
Before menopause, women have slightly lower diastolic pressure and systolic pressure than men do. After menopause, systolic pressure in women increases by about 5 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).
Menopause-related increases in blood pressure can be attributed in part to increased salt sensitivity and weight gain that are in turn associated with hormone changes during menopause. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause also may contribute to increases in blood pressure. Women older than age 50 who take HRT may have a small increase - usually 1 to 2 mm Hg - in systolic blood pressure. These women are also 25 percent more likely to have high blood pressure than are women who don't take HRT.
You can take steps to control high blood pressure after menopause. Lifestyle changes can help avoid, delay or reduce the need for medications. These include:
Reducing sodium in your diet
Increasing physical activity
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight on the DASH eating plan
Limiting or avoiding alcohol
Avoiding tobacco use

However, sometimes lifestyle changes aren't enough. In such cases, medications such as diuretics are very effective in reducing blood pressure. In addition, a European study published in June 2006 in the journal Hypertension suggests that a new hormone therapy - which combines drospirenone (DRSP) and 17-beta-estradiol - may reduce blood pressure in postmenopausal women who have high blood pressure. However, the dosages used in the study are not yet available in the United States.

Risk factors
High blood pressure has many risk factors. Some you can't control.
Age. The risk of high blood pressure increases as you get older. Through early middle age, high blood pressure is more common in men. Women are more likely to develop high blood pressure after menopause.
Race. High blood pressure is particularly common among blacks, often developing at an earlier age than it does in whites. Serious complications, such as stroke and heart attack, also are more common in blacks.
Family history. High blood pressure tends to run in families.
Other risk factors for high blood pressure are within your control.
Excess weight. The greater your body mass, the more blood you need to supply oxygen and nutrients to your tissues. As the volume of blood circulated through your blood vessels increases, so does the pressure on your artery walls.
Inactivity. People who are inactive tend to have higher heart rates. The higher your heart rate, the harder your heart must work with each contraction - and the stronger the force on your arteries. Lack of physical activity also increases the risk of being overweight.
Tobacco use. The chemicals in tobacco can damage the lining of your artery walls, which promotes narrowing of the arteries.
Sodium intake. Too much sodium in your diet - especially if you have sodium sensitivity - can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure.
Low potassium intake. Potassium helps balance the amount of sodium in your cells. If you don't consume or retain enough potassium, you may accumulate too much sodium in your blood.
Excessive alcohol. Over time, heavy drinking can damage your heart.
Stress. High levels of stress can lead to a temporary but dramatic increase in blood pressure. If you try to relax by eating more, using tobacco or drinking alcohol, you may only fuel problems with high blood pressure.
Certain chronic conditions also may increase your risk of high blood pressure, including high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney disease and sleep apnea. Sometimes pregnancy contributes to high blood pressure.
In a 2006 study, adults who worked more than 40 or 50 hours a week - particularly clerical and unskilled workers - were more likely to have high blood pressure than were those who worked 40 hours or less a week. Researchers tied the higher risk for workers with longer hours to unhealthy eating, less exercise, more stress and less sleep.
Although high blood pressure is most common in adults, children may be at risk, too. For some children, high blood pressure is caused by problems with the kidneys or heart. But for a growing number of kids, poor lifestyle habits - such as an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise - contribute to high blood pressure.
Medical conditions that can raise your blood pressure
Most cases of high blood pressure are known as essential or primary hypertension. This means your doctors aren't sure what the exact cause of your high blood pressure is.
However, certain medical conditions can cause high blood pressure. This type of high blood pressure is called secondary high blood pressure or secondary hypertension.
Some of the conditions that can cause secondary hypertension include:
Kidney disease. Damage to your kidneys from inherited or other disorders, such as diabetes, can limit your kidneys' ability to remove salt from your blood, which can cause high blood pressure.
Sleep apnea. A sleep disorder in which breathing is interrupted during sleep.
Renal artery narrowing. This narrowing of kidney arteries can cause a release of hormones that raise blood pressure.
Cushing's disease, aldosteronism and pheochromocytoma. Diseases that can trigger excessive production of hormones by your adrenal glands, which can lead to high blood pressure.
Coarctation of the aorta. A narrowing of the main blood vessel supplying blood from your heart to your body.
By effectively treating these medical conditions, you can typically get your blood pressure under control or even cure it.
Medications, supplements and illicit drugs that can raise your blood pressure
Certain prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements and other substances can trigger or worsen high blood pressure or interfere with the action of medications you're taking to lower your blood pressure. This information is often on the labels and instructions.
Among these substances are:
Certain antidepressants
Certain cold medicines
Certain oral contraceptives
Some nasal decongestants
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Anorexia drugs

Steroids
Cocaine

Avoid illicit drugs, as well as unnecessary medications. In addition, talk to your doctor about medications or other substances that could affect your blood pressure.
Risks you can't change that can raise your blood pressure
Unfortunately, you can't control all of the factors that may increase your risk of high blood pressure. Three major risk factors for high blood pressure that you can't control are:
Race. Blacks are at higher risk.
Age. Being older than 55.
Family history. Having a family member with high blood pressure.
If you have any uncontrollable risk factors, don't simply assume you'll get high blood pressure eventually, no matter what efforts you make. That's not true. You may be able to compensate by changing the risk factors you can control.
Knowing your risks can help you prevent high blood pressure
You may find all of these risk factors daunting. However, even if you have uncontrollable risk factors, it doesn't mean you're destined to get high blood pressure. If you know what your risks are, you can make lifestyle changes to help prevent high blood pressure or delay its onset. And that means you can avoid or delay serious complications that high blood pressure can cause, such as stroke, heart attack, dementia and blindness.

High blood pressure: Take steps to control it
A healthy lifestyle is an integral part of any treatment plan to control high blood pressure. Even if you need medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), and many people do, your lifestyle still plays a central role in your treatment strategy. If you successfully control your blood pressure with a healthy lifestyle, you may avoid, delay or reduce the need for medication.
By making only one healthy change to your lifestyle, you're likely to be more successful controlling your blood pressure than is someone who doesn't make any changes. A lower blood pressure can help you live a longer and fuller life, and prevent heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and dementia.
Lifestyle changes that can change your life
Lifestyle change - it may sound both simple and overwhelming at the same time. But, breaking it down to manageable pieces can help you start down the road to reducing your blood pressure and benefiting from the trickle down health effects of doing so.
Lose excess weight
Blood pressure often increases as weight increases. Losing just 10 pounds can help reduce your blood pressure by several points. In general, the greater the weight loss, the greater the reduction in blood pressure. Weight loss also increases the effectiveness of blood pressure medications (antihypertensives).
Check your weight. Calculating your body mass index (BMI) and measuring your waist circumference are two ways to help tell if you're overweight or obese. In general, if your BMI is 25 to 29, you're overweight, and if it's 30 or higher, you're obese.
Measure your waist circumference. Waist circumference is a useful tool to assess abdominal fat. In general, men are considered overweight if their waist measurement is greater than 40 inches. And women, in general, are overweight if their waist measurement is greater than 35 inches.
Talk to your doctor. You and your doctor can determine your target weight and the best way to achieve it.
Make changes. Eat healthier, exercise and change self-defeating behaviors, such as late-night snacking or big servings at meals. Medications or even surgery might be options for some people.
Avoid questionable products. Don't be lured by promises of easy fixes with over-the-counter diet products or supplements that can actually harm you, such as those containing ephedra. Dietary supplements that contain ephedra have been banned in the United States since April 2004.
Exercise regularly
Physical activity is an important part of an overall strategy to control blood pressure. If you have prehypertension, exercise can help you avoid developing full-blown hypertension. If you already have hypertension, regular physical activity can bring your blood pressure down to safer levels.
Regular physical activity - at least 30 to 60 minutes most days of the week - can lower your blood pressure by several points. And it doesn't take long to see a difference. If you've been sedentary, increasing your activity can lower your blood pressure within just a few weeks. People with hypertension who are active and fit may live longer than those who don't exercise.
Evaluate your current activity level. Are you getting at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week? If not, consider increasing your activity level.
Develop an exercise program. Talk to your doctor about developing an exercise program tailored to your needs and medical conditions. Your doctor can help determine whether you need any exercise restrictions. Even moderate activity, such as walking, can help.
Add strength training. Strength training can slow and reverse declines in strength, bone density and muscle mass that occur as you age. It's also helpful in controlling blood pressure. However, if you have high blood pressure, don't do strenuous, prolonged isometric exercises - straining of your muscles without moving. Isometrics can significantly increase your blood pressure during exercise and for a short time afterward.
Don't be a weekend warrior. Trying to squeeze all your exercise in on the weekends to make up for weekday inactivity isn't a good strategy. If you have uncontrolled hypertension or heart problems, those sudden bursts of activity could actually do more harm than good.
Eat a healthy diet
Remember that old saying, "You are what you eat"? While that might be a bit of an exaggeration, what you eat certainly can affect your blood pressure.
A key research study called Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) showed that you can reduce your blood pressure by following an eating plan that is rich in grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products and skimps on fat, saturated fat and cholesterol. A DASH-style eating plan can reduce your blood pressure by up to 14 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).
Evaluate your eating style. Keep a food diary, even for just a week, to assess your eating patterns and habits. Monitor what you eat, how much, when and why. This can shed surprising light on your true eating habits.
Eat healthier foods. Follow the DASH diet for a healthy eating style. Make grains, vegetables and fruits the mainstays of your diet, with plenty of low-fat dairy products. Eat less red meat and fewer sweets and fats.
Consider boosting potassium. While most Americans get too much sodium, they often get too little potassium. Potassium can blunt the adverse effects of sodium on blood pressure, reduce the risk of kidney stones and possibly reduce bone loss. The best source of potassium is food, such as fruits and vegetables, rather than supplements. Some packaged food products list potassium on the labels. Bear in mind that too much potassium can be toxic. And in people with certain conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, renal disease, severe heart failure and adrenal insufficiency, overly high potassium intake can lead to life-threatening complications. Talk to your doctor about the potassium level that's best for you.
Be a smart consumer. Make a shopping list before heading to the supermarket. Read food labels when you shop. And don't be lured by tempting displays of candy or cookies. Stick to your healthy-eating plan when you're dining out, too.
Cut yourself some slack. Although the DASH diet is a lifelong eating guide, it doesn't mean you have to cut out all of the foods you love. It's OK to treat yourself occasionally to foods you probably wouldn't find on a DASH diet menu, like a candy bar or mashed potatoes with gravy.
Reduce sodium in your diet
Consuming more sodium than you need may raise your blood pressure. The DASH study found that even a modest reduction in sodium intake can reduce blood pressure. And bigger cutbacks mean greater reductions in blood pressure.
Calculate your sodium consumption. Keep a food diary to estimate how much sodium you consume each day. You may be surprised at how much you're taking in. Most healthy adults need only between 1,500 and 2,400 milligrams (mg) of sodium a day. But if you have hypertension, are older than 50, are black, or have such chronic conditions as kidney disease or diabetes, you may be more sensitive to sodium and its ability to raise blood pressure. In that case, aim for less than 1,500 mg of sodium a day.
Don't add salt. Just 1 level teaspoon of salt has 2,300 mg of sodium. Use herbs or spices, rather than salt, to add more flavor to your foods.
Ease into it. If you don't feel like you can drastically reduce your sodium consumption suddenly, cut back gradually. Your palate will adjust over time.
Read food labels. Look at the sodium content before you buy. If possible, choose low-sodium alternatives. Even some foods you think are healthy, such as some vegetable juices, may contain surprisingly high amounts of sodium.
Eat fewer processed foods. Potato chips, frozen dinners and cured meats, such as bacon and processed luncheon meats, are high in sodium.
Eat more fresh foods. Fruits, vegetables and unprocessed grains contain little sodium.
Check your water softener. Water softeners are sometimes a hidden source of sodium in your water at home - although cold water to the kitchen often isn't softened. If your water softener adds excessive sodium to the water you drink, you might want to consider switching to a different water-purification system or buying demineralized water for drinking and cooking.
Limit alcohol consumption
Alcohol can be both good and bad for your health. In small amounts, it can help prevent heart attacks and coronary artery disease. But that protective effect is lost if you drink excessive amounts of alcohol - generally more than one drink a day for women and more than two a day for men. The reason for the difference between men and women in the amount of alcohol recommended is not because of differences in body size, rather it is that women metabolize alcohol differently than men do. At those higher levels, alcohol can raise blood pressure by several points. In addition, it can reduce the effectiveness of your high blood pressure medications, compounding the risks of excessive alcohol consumption.
Assess your drinking patterns. Along with your food diary, keep an alcohol diary to track your true drinking patterns. One drink equals one 12-ounce beer, one 5-ounce glass of wine or one 1.5-ounce shot of whiskey. If you're drinking more than the suggested amounts, cut back.
Consider tapering off. If you're a heavy drinker, suddenly eliminating all alcohol can actually trigger severe hypertension for several days. So when you stop drinking, do it with the supervision of your doctor or taper off slowly, over one to two weeks.
Don't binge. Binge drinking - having four or more drinks in a row - can cause large and sudden increases in blood pressure, in addition to other health problems. Don't abstain during the week and make up for it on the weekend.

Avoid tobacco products and secondhand smoke
On top of other health threats, the nicotine in tobacco products can raise your blood pressure by 10 mm Hg or more. Although that increase may be only temporary, lasting 30 to 60 minutes after using tobacco, having repeated elevations through the course of the day means your blood pressure may remain constantly high. In addition, chemicals in tobacco can damage your arteries and cause fluid retention, both of which can raise your blood pressure. And like alcohol, tobacco products can interfere with the effectiveness of your blood pressure medications.
Don't use any tobacco. That includes pipes, cigars, chewing tobacco and other forms of tobacco, not just cigarettes. The combination of high blood pressure and tobacco use increases your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Once you stop smoking, your blood pressure may drop by a few points. Although that might not seem like much, you'll also reap the other health benefits of stopping, such as reducing your risk of lung cancer.
Avoid secondhand smoke. Inhaling smoke from others also puts you at risk of health problems.
Limit caffeine consumption
The role caffeine plays in blood pressure is still debatable. Drinking caffeinated beverages can temporarily cause a spike in your blood pressure. And some studies show that people who drink caffeine regularly have a higher average blood pressure, suggesting that caffeine might have a long-term impact. But other studies show you can develop a tolerance to caffeine so that it doesn't affect your blood pressure. A November 2005 study showed drinking coffee - even a lot of it - didn't seem to increase the risk of high blood pressure in women, but drinking colas containing caffeine did. However, it isn't clear whether there are other properties of the two beverages that might be affecting blood pressure.
Check your caffeine consumption. Tally up how much caffeine you consume in an average day. Some doctors recommend limiting caffeine to 200 mg a day - about the amount in two cups of coffee.
Test your sensitivity. To see if caffeine might be raising your blood pressure, check your pressure within 30 minutes of drinking a cup of coffee or another caffeinated beverage you regularly consume. If your blood pressure increases by five to 10 points, you may be sensitive to the blood-pressure-raising effects of caffeine.
Reduce your stress levels
As with caffeine, the influence of stress on blood pressure isn't settled. Stress or anxiety can temporarily increase blood pressure. That's why some people develop white-coat hypertension - a brief rise in blood pressure when they visit the doctor's office or are in stressful situations. But others may thrive on stress.
Identify your stressors. You need to know what your stressors are before you can act on them. Take some time to think about what causes you to feel stressed, such as work, family, finances or illness.
Reduce your stressors. Once you know what's causing you stress, see which stressors you can eliminate or reduce. For instance, if you typically say yes to each favor asked of you, start saying no to some requests. If you get stuck putting in overtime every day, talk to your supervisor about a more balanced workload.
Learn better coping methods. If you can't eliminate all of your stressors, you can at least cope with them in a healthier way. Take breaks for deep-breathing exercises. Get a massage or take up yoga or meditation. If self-help doesn't work, seek out a professional for counseling. Try meditation or ask your doctor about purchasing a machine that helps teach slow deep breathing.
Get regular health care
When you have high blood pressure, you'll likely need to monitor your blood pressure at home. Learning to self-monitor your blood pressure can be a motivating force in making and monitoring lifestyle changes to control blood pressure. In addition, a record of your blood pressure readings helps your doctor know if your medications are working or if they might need to be adjusted.
Regular visits to your doctor are also likely to become a part of your normal routine. These visits will help keep tabs on your blood pressure - and ensure that you don't neglect other health concerns.
Have a primary care doctor. People who don't have a primary care doctor find it harder to control their blood pressure. If you can, visit the same health care facility or professional for all of your health care needs.
Visit your doctor routinely. If your blood pressure is not well controlled, or if you have other medical problems, you might need to visit your doctor every month to review your treatment and make adjustments. If your blood pressure is well controlled, you might need to visit your doctor only every six to 12 months, depending on other conditions you might have. People who have frequent blood pressure checks at their doctor's office are more likely to control their blood pressure than are those who go a year or more between visits.
Cultivate a support system
Supportive family and friends can help improve your health. They may encourage you to take care of yourself, drive you to the doctor's office or embark on an exercise program with you. Knowing that someone cares about you may inspire you to stick to healthy habits and take your blood pressure medication on schedule.
Enlist support. Talk to your family and friends about the dangers of high blood pressure. If they understand the potential complications of uncontrolled high blood pressure, they're more likely to support your efforts to change unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Join a support group. A support group brings together people who share similar interests or concerns. Joining a support group may put you in touch with people who can give you an emotional or morale boost, and who can offer practical tips to cope with your condition.
The payoff: Healthier living
Despite the big benefits offered by making these healthy changes, only about half the people with high blood pressure try to modify their lifestyle as a way to treat their condition.
For most people, these are not drastic changes in daily life, but they offer significant rewards. When your blood pressure is under control, your risk of life-threatening complications, such as heart attack and stroke, decreases and you may live a longer and happier life.
Complications
High blood pressure dangers: Hypertension's effects on your body
Often called the silent killer, high blood pressure can quietly damage your body for years before symptoms develop. Left uncontrolled, you may wind up with a disability, a poor quality of life or even a fatal heart attack.
Learn more about high blood pressure so that you know what's at stake and can gain a better sense of why successfully managing your high blood pressure is so important.
Here's a look at the complications high blood pressure (hypertension) can cause when it's not effectively controlled.
Damage to your arteries
Healthy arteries are flexible, strong and elastic. Their inner lining is smooth so that blood flows freely, supplying vital organs and tissues with adequate nutrients and oxygen. If you have high blood pressure, the increased pressure of blood flowing through your arteries gradually can cause a variety of problems, including:
Arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis. The excessive pressure in your arteries from high blood pressure alters the cells of the arteries' inner lining. That launches a cascade of events that make artery walls thick and stiff, a disease called arteriosclerosis (ahr-teer-e-o-skluh-RO-sis), or hardening of the arteries. Circulating fats pass through the altered cells and accumulate to start the process of atherosclerosis. These changes can affect arteries throughout your body, obstructing blood flow to your heart, kidneys, brain and extremities. The damage can cause chest pain (angina), heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure, stroke, peripheral arterial disease and aneurysms.
Aneurysm. Over time, the constant pressure of blood coursing through a weakened artery can cause a section of its wall to enlarge and form a bulge (aneurysm). An aneurysm (AN-u-rizm) can rupture and cause life-threatening internal bleeding. Aneurysms can form in any artery throughout your body, but they're most common in the aorta, your body's largest artery.
Damage to your heart
Your heart is responsible for pumping blood to your entire body. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage your heart in a number of ways, such as:
Coronary artery disease (CAD). This is a cluster of diseases involving the arteries that supply blood to your heart muscle. Changes to the cells lining these arteries reduce the ability of the arteries to dilate, which can cause chest pain (angina). CAD also occurs when blood flow through your arteries becomes obstructed, usually because of atherosclerosis. When blood can't flow freely to your heart, you can experience chest pain, a heart attack or irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias). People with high blood pressure who have a heart attack are more likely to die of that heart attack than are people who don't have high blood pressure.
Enlarged left heart. High blood pressure forces your heart to overexert itself. This causes the left ventricle to enlarge (left ventricular hypertrophy) - just as your biceps get bigger when you lift weights. This enlargement limits the ventricle's ability to expand sufficiently and to completely fill with blood. In turn, the ventricle can't pump out as much blood to your body. This condition increases your risk of heart attack, heart failure and sudden cardiac death.
Heart failure. Over time, the added exertion demanded by high blood pressure can cause your heart muscle to weaken and work less efficiently. Eventually, your overwhelmed heart simply begins to wear out and fail. Damage from heart attacks adds to this problem.
Damage to your brain
Just like your heart, your brain depends on a nourishing blood supply to function properly and survive. But high blood pressure can cause several problems, including:
Transient ischemic attack (TIA). Sometimes called a ministroke, a transient ischemic (is-KEM-ik) attack is a brief, temporary obstruction of blood supply to your brain. It's often caused by atherosclerosis or a blood clot - both of which can arise from high blood pressure. A transient ischemic attack is often a warning that you're at risk of a full-blown stroke.
Stroke. A stroke occurs when part of your brain is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to die. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to stroke by damaging and weakening your brain's blood vessels, causing them to narrow, rupture, or leak. High blood pressure can also cause an aneurysm - a bulge in the blood vessel wall that can burst, causing life-threatening bleeding in the brain.
Dementia. Dementia is a brain disease resulting in impaired thinking, speaking, reasoning, memory, vision and movement. Vascular dementia can result from extensive narrowing and blockage of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. It can also result from strokes caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain. In either case, high blood pressure may be the culprit. High blood pressure that occurs even as early as middle age can increase the risk of dementia in later years.
Mild cognitive impairment. Mild cognitive impairment is a transition stage between the cognitive changes of normal aging and the more serious problems caused by Alzheimer's disease. Like dementia, it can result from impaired blood flow to the brain when high blood pressure damages arteries. This condition can affect many areas of cognition, such as language, attention, critical thinking, reading, writing, reaction time and memory.
Damage to your kidneys
Your kidneys are responsible for filtering and excreting excess fluid and waste from your blood - processes that are highly dependent on your blood vessels. High blood pressure can injure both the blood vessels in and leading to your kidneys, causing several types of kidney disease (nephropathy). Having diabetes in addition to high blood pressure can worsen the damage.
Kidney failure. High blood pressure is one of the most common causes of kidney (renal) failure. That's because it can damage both the large arteries leading to your kidneys and the tiny blood vessels (glomeruli) within the kidneys. Damage to either disrupts the ability of your kidneys to filter waste products from your blood. As a result, dangerous levels of fluid and waste can accumulate. You might ultimately require dialysis or kidney transplantation.
Kidney scarring (glomerulosclerosis). Glomerulosclerosis (glo-mer-u-lo-skluh-RO-sis) is a type of kidney damage caused by scarring of the glomeruli (glo-MER-u-li). The glomeruli are tiny clusters of blood vessels within your kidneys that filter fluid, waste and other substances from your blood. Glomerulosclerosis can leave your kidneys unable to filter waste effectively, ultimately leading to kidney failure.
Kidney artery aneurysm. An aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of a blood vessel. When it occurs in an artery leading to the kidney, it's known as a kidney (renal) artery aneurysm. One potential cause is atherosclerosis, which weakens and damages the artery wall. Over time, the excessive pressure of blood coursing through a weakened artery can cause a section to enlarge and form a bulge - the aneurysm. Aneurysms can rupture and cause life-threatening internal bleeding.
Damage to your eyes
Tiny, delicate blood vessels supply blood to your eyes. Like other vessels, they, too, are vulnerable to the damage of high blood pressure:
Eye blood vessel damage (retinopathy). High blood pressure can damage the vessels supplying blood to your retina. Damaged enough, the blood vessels can leak or become blocked, resulting in retinopathy. This condition can lead to bleeding in the eye, microaneurysms, swelling of the optic nerve, blurred vision and complete loss of vision. If you also have both diabetes and high blood pressure, you're at an even greater risk.
Fluid buildup under the retina (choroidopathy). In this condition, fluid accumulates under the retina because of a leaky blood vessel in the choroid, a layer of blood vessels located under the retina. Choroidopathy (kor-oid-OP-uh-thee) can result in vision distortion or in some cases scarring that impairs vision.
Nerve damage (optic neuropathy). This is a condition in which blocked blood flow damages the optic nerve. It can lead to the death or dysfunction of optic nerve cells, which may cause bleeding within your eye or vision loss.
High blood pressure emergencies
High blood pressure is typically a chronic condition that gradually causes damage over the years. In some cases, though, blood pressure rises so quickly and severely that it constitutes a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment, often with hospitalization.
In these situations, high blood pressure can cause:
Brain dysfunction marked by memory loss, personality changes, trouble concentrating, lethargy, or progressive loss of consciousness. (encephalopathy)
Stroke
Severe damage to your heart's main artery (aortic dissection)
Seizures in pregnant women (eclampsia)
Unstable chest pain (angina)
Heart attack
Impaired pumping of the heart leading to fluid backup in the lungs resulting in shortness of breath (pulmonary edema)
Sudden loss of kidney function (acute renal failure)
In most cases, these emergencies arise because high blood pressure hasn't been adequately controlled.
Other possible dangers of high blood pressure
Evidence is mounting that high blood pressure can also affect other areas of the body, leading to such problems as:
Sexual dysfunction. Although the inability to have and maintain an erection (erectile dysfunction) becomes increasingly common in men as they reach age 50, it's even more likely to occur if they have high blood pressure, too. Evidence linking high blood pressure to sexual dysfunction in women isn't conclusive.
Bone loss. High blood pressure can increase the amount of calcium that's eliminated in the urine. That excessive elimination of calcium may lead to loss of bone mineral density (osteoporosis), which in turn can lead to fractures. The risk is especially increased in older women.
Trouble sleeping. Obstructive sleep apnea - a condition where your throat muscles relax causing you to snore loudly - occurs in more than half of those with high blood pressure. It's now thought that high blood pressure itself may help trigger sleep apnea. Also, sleep deprivation resulting from sleep apnea can raise your blood pressure.
Prevention makes a difference
High blood pressure's complications are serious. But if your blood pressure is well controlled, you're more likely to keep the most severe problems at bay.
Adopting healthy lifestyle changes can help you manage your disease. For example, reducing your sodium (salt) intake and losing even a little weight can have a dramatic impact on your high blood pressure.
You may also need to take high blood pressure medications. Many of these medications have the added benefit of helping prevent specific complications, such as heart or kidney disease.
Working closely with your health care team, you can get a handle on your blood pressure and live a healthier life.
Double Trouble: Diabetes Plus Hypertension
If you have diabetes and high blood pressure, the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) has a special message—and a treatment—for you. "People with these two conditions are at increased risk for cardiovascular problems as well as kidney disease," says William Keane, MD, president of the NKF and professor of medicine at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis. "The key is to keep even closer control of blood pressure than experts have recommended in the past."If you're one of the 11 million Americans with both conditions, make a doctor's appointment today, and bring this article along. "Despite the severity of these medical problems, people are largely unaware of the dangers," Dr. Keane says. "The following recommendations give doctors the tools that will save lives."Aim for these numbers. If you're diabetic, work with your physician to achieve a blood pressure less than 130/80. Check it monthly until you've reached this goal, Dr. Keane suggests.Discuss meds with your doctor. The NKF recommends aggressive treatment that could involve several medications, including ACE inhibitors that help prevent blood vessel contraction, diuretics that help rid the body of excess water waste, long-acting calcium channel blockers that relax blood vessels, and beta blockers that slow the heart rate, Dr. Keane says. The good news: Early treatment may forestall the need for more meds in the future. Take action at home. While lifestyle changes haven't proved as potent at fighting off the repercussions of hypertensive diabetes, they are still worth pursuing. Minimize fat, cholesterol, and salt in your diet, and don't smoke.
K.V.Vighnesh
Chennai
9444961820