Sunday, October 23, 2016

My Birthday Blog - Hypertensive Mrs. H

It's been a while.

I was very busy with work that I never had the time to write something. Anyway, since it's my birthday, let me update you what's new with Mrs. H. (that is if you're interested! lol! )

A few weeks back, I've been contemplating on living a healthier lifestlye and perhaps loose more weight. I did write a  blog light years ago about that but unfortunately, I wasn't able to keep up on that.

Fast forward. Just last week, I was brought to the hospital because my blood pressure was consistently high for 3 consecutive days. 150/100, 140/100 and 160/100.

Provided below is the American Heart Association's blood pressure Chart:



Normal Blood Pressure
Systolic: Less than 120
Diastolic: Less than 80


Prehypertension
Blood Pressure

Systolic: From 120 to 139
Diastolic: From 80 to 89


High Blood Pressure
(Hypertension) Stage 1

Systolic: From 140 to 159
Diastolic: From 90 to 99


High Blood Pressure
(Hypertension) Stage 2

Systolic: 160 or higher
Diastolic: 100 or higher


Hypertensive Crisis
(Emergency care needed)

Systolic: Higher than 180
Diastolic: Higher than 110




After some tests the Internist has advised that I need to take maintenance meds for my Hypertension. We also found out that my Uric Acid content was 7.90 mg/dl (normal range for female is from 2.5-6.8 mg/ml). I also took a side trip to the Orthopedic Physician, took an x-ray and found out the my right knee cap has a slight damage.

I have to be honest that these news made me so depressed. Both the Internist and Ortho advised that my weight was one of the factor. A Lifestyle Change must be seriously taken such as:

Stay Away from Stress



My work and being away from my family can be very stressful sometimes. But one of my main problems is that I don't get enough sleep.

Stop Smoking and Drinking
I must admit that I am an occasional smoker. I smoke when I'm stressed. I'm a social drinker. I always have a bottle of wine in my refrigerator but I rarely drink.

Eat Less Meat

and that includes processed food (spam, sausages, cold cuts), liver, gizzards, etc.

Cut the Salt



I love savory foods....

Eat less Rice



Geez, I am Filipino and rice is our staple food. This is going to be torture for me

Do more Physical Activities



I am Obese and I need to lose weight. However, I need to consider my damaged right knee cap.

This will be a struggle and to be honest, I am already struggling in this transition. But I am willing to do my part to improve my health. My children are still young and I want to be healthy for them. I need to be healthy for my work.

Having all of these said, I hope that you can give me tips on how can I make it easier to improve my BP and lower down my Uric Acid. Maybe you can also share your diet or recipes.

I will try my best to keep you all posted on the progress of my Journey to a Healthier me! 

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