Hypertension: Is There An Easy Cure?

     Hypertension is a serious condition that has been increasing in prevalence throughout the years. Hypertension is defined as chronic high blood pressure and is a factor that contributes to serious conditions such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. However, it has been proven that hypertension can be prevented, treated, and controlled with regular physical activity. The direct physiological reason that physical activity does this has not yet been established, but multiple benefits of activity contribute to prevention, treatment, and control of hypertension. Below are a few ways exercise benefits those with hypertension.

1. IMPROVES INSULIN RESISTANCE

     Physical activity has been identified to improve insulin resistance. Decreases in insulin secretion occur during physical activity to maintain blood glucose levels. The presence of insulin encourages muscle cells to move toward injured areas in the body. In the case of hypertension, from a build up of plaque in the arteries, smooth muscle cells migrate from the outside layer of the artery, called the media, toward the damaged inner layer, the endothelium, where plaque is located. Migration of smooth muscle cells to the site of plaque formation causes the mound of plaque to grow, further constricting the artery and increasing blood pressure. Partaking in physical activity decreases insulin secretion, which decreases promotion of smooth muscle cells toward plaque build up, which prevents an increase in hypertension. 

2. REDUCES ANXIETY AND STRESS

     In addition, the sympathetic nervous system is hyperactive in individuals with hypertension. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the “flight or fight” response that increases heart rate and vasoconstricts (narrows) blood vessels from the continuous release of constricting hormones (catecholamines and acetylcoline). Physical activity is seen to reduce anxiety and stress, and lower the sympathetic nervous system activity, therefore decreasing the constricting actions of hormones. Physical activity also vasodialates (widens) blood vessels to increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the working muscles. This reverses the chronic vasoconstriction of blood vessels commonly seen in hypertension. 

3. REDUCES INFLAMMATION

     Increased fitness levels are associated with a decrease in the presence of inflammatory markers in the blood, specifically C-reactive protein (CRP). Elevated CRP levels are markers in the blood that indicate inflammation. Inflammation within the arteries from plaque build up contributes to hypertension. Therefore, a decrease in inflammation as a result of physical activity will reduce the presence of CRP levels, which will successively decrease hypertension. In addition, it is proven that exercise is just as good, if not better, than common drugs and medications at reducing CRP levels. 

4. REDUCES BODY FAT AND WEIGHT

     Lastly, regular physical activity most often reduces an individual’s body fat and weight. There is found to be a correlation between a decrease in weight and a decrease in blood pressure. Decreases in body fat also present a decrease in CRP levels. The more an individual weighs, the more strain the heart is put under to effectively circulate blood, which increases blood pressure. 

     Overall, there is no one easy fix to cure hypertension. However, participation in regular physical activity is the closest thing to an ideal treatment, prevention, and cure for hypertension. So get out there and be active!