 Definition
Hypertension is a disorder characterized by high blood
pressure. Blood pressure is the force of the flowing blood against the walls of
the arteries. It is measured in two numbers. The first number is systolic
pressure which represents the pressure generated when the heart contracts and
pumps the blood through the artery. The lower number is diastolic pressure,
which represents the pressure in the vessels when the heart is at rest. If your
systolic pressure is equal or greater than 140 mmhg, and/or your diastolic
pressure is equal or greater than 90 mmhg on three separate occasions while
seated, a definite diagnosis can be made.
Cause
Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood pumped by
the heart, the size and condition of the arteries. More than 90% of hypertension
has no underlying disease. This is called "essential hypertension." It may also
be caused by other diseases or physical problems. This is called "secondary
hypertension." Common causes are kidney or thyroid disease. Many factors are
associated with hypertension, including genetics, age, race, long term stress,
obesity, smoking, high salt diet, alcohol abuse and a sedentary lifestyle. In
Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is a different view of hypertension. Western
medicines approach has major differences, which considers hypertension to be a
disease of the cardiovascular system. Tradition Chinese Medicine takes into
account the inharmonious condition of the whole system, which involves the
improper function of the heart, liver, kidneys and digestive system.
Symptoms
High blood pressure can develop over many years without
noticeable symptoms. Fifty-eight million Americans, or about 18% to 20% of the
US adult population have hypertension, but nearly one-third of people do not
even know they have it. This is why hypertension is often called the "silent
killer." Only when blood pressure is severe do warning signs appear, such as
headaches, dizziness, nose bleeds, and racing or irregular heart beat.
High blood pressure is a serious physical disorder; it can cause many health
problems, including heart attack, stroke, brain damage, kidney damage and
blindness. If hypertension is severe, the patient may have the following
symptoms:
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headache
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fatigue
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confusion
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nausea/vomiting
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excessive perspiration
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muscle tremors
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chest pain
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heart failure
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ear ringing/buzzing
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blood in urine
Management
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are playing a very
important role in the management of hypertension.
Based on the theory of traditional Chinese Medicine, the
elevated blood pressure and symptoms are regarded as the superficial aspect of a
deeper underlying health condition, so the treatment is not just to eliminate or
alleviate the symptoms, but rather treat the underlying cause, and to have a
prevention -oriented, holistic approach for hypertension patients. We believe
that the partnership between the patient and practitioner is extremely
important. Self management should always be emphasized along with the treatment,
which includes:
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Daily Tai-Chi and Qi-Gong exercises
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Daily Meditation
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Regular aerobic activity (55% to 70 % of maximal heart
rate) for 30 minutes and light resistance training (20-30 repetition per set)
at least 3-4 times a week.
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Eating more fresh fruits, vegetables, and foods high in
fiber. Reduce fats and high cholesterol food (animal fats, fatty meats, full
fat cheese, butter, egg yolk, oysters, offal).
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Avoid excessive salt intake
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Stop smoking
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Avoid alcohol, coffee, and spicy foods
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Stress management
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Weight control program
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