You’re probably familiar with high blood pressure. It’s one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions in older adults. Did you know that low blood pressure is just as risky? What are the differences between high blood pressure and low blood pressure?
Hypertension vs. Hypotension
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a chronic health issue where the pressure of the blood within blood vessels and arteries is too high. A blood pressure reading contains two readings. One reading is the pressure of the blood flow during a heartbeat, and the other reading is the pressure between beats. Generally, your blood pressure should be no higher than 120 over 80.
Most doctors expect a person’s blood pressure to be a bit higher during a doctor’s visit. They’re stressful, and just going into a medical office can increase your numbers. If your dad’s blood pressure is high at the office, he may be advised to start measuring it at home.
High blood pressure is more common in people who are overweight, experiencing high levels of stress, eat a poor diet, don’t get enough exercise, or smoke. Lifestyle changes may help lower numbers. He may need to take medications like beta-blockers.
You also have hypotension (low blood pressure), that’s the opposite. The blood pressure is too low. You have low blood pressure when your readings are consistently 90 over 60 or lower.
Is low blood pressure dangerous? Not necessarily, but if it’s causing dizziness or drowsiness, it can be risky. If your dad has low blood pressure and passes out when he gets lightheaded, she could gain severe injuries during the fall.
It also depends on the reason for the low blood pressure. It can be an indicator of infection, dehydration, thyroid disease, diabetes, and blood loss. If your dad’s blood pressure is low, it’s important to have a doctor rule out health issues.
Some recommendations to prevent low blood pressure include stopping drinking alcoholic beverages, drinking enough water, limiting carb consumption, using care when standing up, or getting enough sodium in the diet. Eating smaller meals every few hours can also help keep blood sugar levels stable.
Make Sure Your Dad Has the Support He Needs
When your dad’s blood pressure readings are abnormal, it’s important to ensure his family supports him and professional caregivers. Arrange home care assistance to ensure your dad is not alone all day.
Your dad may want someone to walk around with him, prepare his meals, and remind him to take his medications. If he’s feeling lightheaded, he has someone there for physical and emotional support. His caregiver can also drive him to his appointments, so that he’s not going on his own.
Home care assistance includes transportation, medication reminders, and companionship, all of which are important when blood pressure isn’t stable. Call a home care agency to learn more.
For more information about how caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare can help your aging parents remain in their own homes, call 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable senior care in La Costa, CA, and the surrounding communities.
Today we are the oldest and most experienced private duty agency in San Diego County.She saw a need for quality private duty home health care and she worked diligently to build an agency that filled that need.I am proud to say, her vision is carried on today with our dedicated staff.
I believe our tenure in the community speaks well for us.We have had the opportunity to be of service to countless interesting individuals, including local and worldwide celebrities.It is the people we care for that makes this a fascinating industry.Whether high profile or a more ordinary citizen, we are proud that thousands have entrusted us with their care or the care of their loved ones.Our Mission is to provide high quality, very secure and the most compassionate home health care.We believe that patients heal faster and are happiest when they can stay in their homes.”
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