Hypertension section
Hypertension/Coronary Heart Disease
High blood pressure is one of the main risk factors worldwide.
It’s a disease that usually shows no symptoms, so we often act stupid, neglect a good diet, and abandon drug treatment.
During vacations, especially in the summer, we increase our stupidity!!! And noncompliance with medication increases by 20%.
take your blood pressure monitor with you on vacation
Llevar el tensiómetro para conocer nuestros niveles de presión arterial. Chequear al menos una vez por semana, mientras mas veces, mejor.
Hay varios tipos de tensiómetros electrónicos y portátiles, para el brazo, para la muñeca, e incluso para el dedo (menos preciso pero ocupa poco espacio ideal apra llevarlo a sus paseos).
Be careful with food and excessive alcohol
Identical recommendations for people with hypertension and kidney failure.
Yes, we’re not going to tell you how to properly follow your diet here either, but keep in mind that a poor diet, along with other factors such as alcohol abuse, tobacco use, or a sedentary lifestyle, can cause uncontrolled blood pressure, and your readings can become irregular and skyrocket.
Vacation shouldn’t be an excuse to abandon a balanced diet.
And put down that salt shaker! 😬
Beware of heat and dehydration!
Dehydrationincrease the risk of high blood pressure.
Drink at least 70oz ( 2 L) daily, and more if you exercise or walk in parks, even if you’re not thirsty! (With age and neuropathies, the thirst reflex is inhibited.)
For hypertensive patients, isotonic drinks are NOT RECOMMENDED, as they contain high levels of sodium and potassium.
Economy class syndrome
This syndrome occurs when one remains immobile in a confined space with limited movement for an extended period.
It can occur in any mode of transportation, but is more common on airplanes due to the decreased air pressure and low humidity. Some tips to prevent it:
- Choose aisle seats, as they allow for greater mobility.
- Get up at least once an hour and walk around a bit.
- Do contraction and stretching exercises with your feet, legs, hands, and neck, and avoid crossing your legs.
- Do not wear tight clothing.
- Avoid coffee, tea, and alcohol, and increase your water intake.
- People at high risk are advised to wear compression stockings.
- Take an aspirin before, during, and after the trip.
Sources Hypertension Section
Sociedad Española Médicos de Atención Primaria “Hipertensión y Vacaciones“
Fundación Española del Corazón “No dejes que el verano castigue tu corazón“
Sociedad Argentina de Cardiología “Recomendaciones para el turismo”.
See the special sections for more information.
