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Given the fact that high blood pressure is one of the most common problems all over the world, precious little is known about the leading causes of the condition. To be more precise, the primary cause of the condition remains unknown in about 90 to 95 percent of the cases. Most people are unaware of the complications of the condition until they are diagnosed with it. As a result, before we go on to discussing the possible changes that you may need to make to your lifestyle, we will first understand the condition. When the heart pumps blood into the arteries, the blood will flow with a force that pushes it against the walls of the arteries. When a person is suffering from high blood pressure, the extra force can lead to a number of other serious complications such as kidney failure, peripheral artery disease, congestive heart failure, heart attacks, heart disease as well as aortic aneurysms. Almost 1 in every 3 people in the United States of America alone suffers from high blood pressure. The condition is also complicated by the fact that there are often no symptoms caused – leading to a lot of people only being diagnosed with the condition when it has already reached an advanced stage.

With regards to whether you can fly when affected by the condition, the best course of action would be to consult your doctor who has access to your medical history. Given that the blood pressure will fluctuate through the course of the day and night, your bodies reaction to flying will largely depend on what condition it is in at that point. Moreover, if you are a nervous flyer, then it is highly suggested that you avoid flying as your blood pressure will naturally reach higher levels. You may want to concentrate your efforts on controlling the condition to a significant extent before choosing to fly.

Some home remedies that may help you achieve this includes increasing your intake of rice as it has a low fat, low salt and low cholesterol level making it a perfect diet for people suffering from high blood pressure. Boiled potatoes are known to be extremely effective in reducing blood pressure. If you boil them with their skin on, they tend to absorb very little salt which goes well with any salt-free diet that maybe recommended by your doctor. carrot juice and spinach juices are also known to be extremely beneficial when dealing with this condition.

answered by M W

Hypertension or High blood pressure is a serious ailment that can lead to heart failure, kidney failure, strokes, coronary heart ailments and also contribute to various other health disorders.
As the term suggests, the blood pressure is an indicator of force exerted as the heart pumps blood and pushes against the walls of the arteries. High blood pressure implies the heart is pumping blood more often than required. This results in over exercise for an average heart leading to heart failure and other coronary disorders. Blood pressure is an indicator or guide to the health of your heart.

Chronic diseases related to the kidney or thyroid can also contribute to high blood pressure. Blood pressure is also known to affect women who consume birth control pills, are pregnant or take hormone replacement therapy. Intake of certain medications such as corticosteroids or cold relief products can also contribute to increase in blood pressure. This particular ailment tends to rise with age. Blood pressure is usually a risk for those above forty five to fifty years of age. Apart from age, obesity, heredity, unhealthy lifestyle habits and sedentary living also cause risks to contracting this disorder. Blood pressure has therefore caught up with thirty something professionals leading fast paced lives and high pressure jobs. Inadequate dietary requirements, excessive sodium intake, consumption of alcohol, smoking, potassium deficiency and stress can all lead to blood pressure among the young and those aging.

High blood pressure does not pose risks while flying unless sudden medical care is required while in flight. Keeping yourself calm and composed should help you keep your blood pressure in a safe range. Ideally, drink a lot of water to keep yourself hydrated. Ensure intake of all prescribed medications before flying and attempt to read any favorite book or take a nap to help you get through the journey without any stress. If the flight food could be a cause of concern if your doctor suggests so, carry home made snacks with low sodium content to help you tide the journey. There is no formal evidence that keeps passengers with hypertension from flying. Stressful situations such as standing in long queues, disturbing sounds, carrying heavy bags or heated arguments or discussions can increase blood pressure. Therefore, intake of prescribed medicines and an attempt to remain cool under all situations should help you complete your journey without any problems. Have a safe and happy journey!

answered by M W

In general, it is safe to fly with high blood pressure, provided it is unwavering and under control with medications. High and unstable levels call for your physician's guidance. A physician's visit is recommended before travel.

answered by r k

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