ACE Inhibitors
How they help you manage your blood pressure
If you are at risk for high blood pressure, did someone ask you to take an ACE inhibitor?
Have you wondered what it is doing and why it is necessary to take one?
An ACE inhibitor is a type of medicine used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. They work by blocking the action of a specific enzyme involved in regulating blood pressure, helping to lower it and reduce strain on the heart.
At the heart of the process is the manner in which your body regulates the thickness (viscosity) of your blood.
As I have explained before, the thickness of your blood regulates to a great extent the pressure in your arteries. The thicker the blood, the more the pressure needed to send it across your body.
An ACE inhibitor then targets the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). The system influences fluid balance and blood vessel constriction.
Under normal circumstances, this system is designed to constrict your blood vessels and reduce water in your blood thereby increase your blood pressure.
By inhibiting this system, you are preventing the constriction of your vessels and also keeping water in your blood.
Your blood pressure falls and there is a corollary reduction in the strain on your heart.
It is not a free ride. These medications have side effects which include a persistent dry cough, dizziness, or elevated potassium levels.
The risks need to be balanced with your need to reduce your blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attacks.
I have to mention that you do have options.
Options that can be exercised without and conflict with your medication.
For example, the viscocity or thickness of your blood is a function of the food that you eat. If you consume foods that naturally thin your blood, you would have helped the medicine do its job.
Similarly consuming adequate water will ensure that your body is well hydrated and your blood pressure is in check.
Do remember to check your blood pressure correctly. Take readings on both hands and then average the results. Drink a glass of water and wait ten minutes before you take your readings.
By the way, a brief interview where my son asks questions on health is out on YouTube. Do watch it is both fun and useful [link here]
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