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In today’s time, problems related to high cholesterol and high blood pressure are increasing rapidly. Due to poor eating habits, lack of physical activity, stress, increasing weight and wrong lifestyle, a large number of people are getting affected by both these conditions. Many times people do not understand whether high cholesterol can also affect blood pressure.
cholesterol As it grows, fat gradually starts accumulating on the walls of the blood vessels. Due to this, the vessels can become narrow and their elasticity can reduce. When blood flow does not occur normally, the heart has to work harder to pump blood. Over time, this condition can put more pressure on the heart and blood vessels. Although its effect is not the same in every person, high cholesterol and high BP are often found together. In such a situation, it is important to understand what is the relationship between the two, which signs should not be ignored and what measures can be taken to control them.
Can high cholesterol increase BP?
Dr. Ajit Jain, Associate Professor at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital, Delhi It is said that high cholesterol can directly affect blood pressure. When bad cholesterol starts accumulating on the inner walls of the vessels, plaque can form. Due to this, the blood vessels become narrow and the blood flow in them can be obstructed. In such a situation, the heart has to exert more pressure to supply blood to the entire body, which can increase blood pressure.
Although having high cholesterol does not mean that every person’s BP will definitely increase, but if the person also has other risk factors like obesity, diabetes, smoking habit, stress or family history, then both the problems can develop simultaneously. This combination may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and other heart-related complications. Therefore, regular checkup and timely control of both is very important.
In what indications should cholesterol and BP be checked?
High cholesterol and high BP are often called silent conditions, because they do not have obvious symptoms in the initial stages. Therefore, if there is a history of heart disease, high BP or cholesterol in the family, then tests should be done from time to time. Increasing weight, less physical activity, smoking, diabetes and stress also increase the need for regular checkups.
Some people may experience symptoms like headache, dizziness, heaviness in the chest, shortness of breath, fatigue or feeling of fast heartbeat. Although these symptoms are not necessary only due to high BP or cholesterol. Therefore, people with risk factors should get their blood pressure and lipid profile checked regularly as per the doctor’s advice.
What to do to control cholesterol and BP?
To keep both the problems under control, it is most important to adopt a balanced lifestyle. Reduce fried, excess salt, trans fat and processed foods in your diet. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses and healthy fats in your diet. Do regular exercise at least five days a week and keep your weight under control.
Also, avoid smoking and excess alcohol, reduce stress and get enough sleep. If the doctor has prescribed medicines, take them regularly and do not stop without advice. With regular checkups, both conditions can be kept under better control for a long time.
