Blog Layout

Lower Your Blood Pressure With These Lifestyle Changes

Dr. Chimezie C. Amanambu, M.D • Jan 11, 2023

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you are not alone. “Nearly half of adults in the United States” have high blood pressure - hypertension. (Center for Disease Control, cdc.gov/bloodpressure /facts/htm, reviewed January 5, 2023) The good news is, however, that there are ways to lower your blood pressure, and live a healthy life. These tips fall into two categories: , things to increase to lower blood pressure, and things to decrease to lower blood pressure. 

THINGS TO INCREASE TO LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE

●    Increase your activity. Exercising more and staying active can lower your high blood pressure. Activities such as walking, swimming, aerobics, and resistance training all contribute to a healthy blood pressure. 

●    Increase vitamins and supplements that aid in lowering blood pressure. These include potassium, Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and magnesium. 

●    Consuming garlic has proven to lower systolic blood pressure. 

●    Increasing high protein foods such as salmon, eggs, poultry, beans, nuts, and cheese encourages a drop in blood pressure.

●    Increase your nightly sleep. Making sure to get 8-10 hours of sleep each night can reduce your high blood pressure. 

●    Increasing your intake of dark chocolate. Studies are finding that eating dark chocolate with 60% - 70% cacao dilates blood vessels. 

●    Begin taking high blood pressure medication as prescribed by your doctor.


THINGS TO DECREASE TO LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE

●    Decrease your alcohol intake. It is recommended that men drink no more than 2 alcoholic beverages per day and women drink no more than one alcoholic beverage per day. 

●    Decrease your caffeine intake.

●    Quit smoking entirely. 

●    Decrease your weight to a healthy level for you. If you are overweight, dropping 5-10 pounds can lower your high blood pressure. 

●    Decrease your sugar consumption. Table sugar, high fructose corn syrup and processed flours can increase your high blood pressure. Eating less sugar, and avoiding refined grains can contribute to a healthy blood pressure. 

●    Decrease your sodium intake. Eating less sodium also promotes a healthy blood pressure.

●    Eating less processed foods such as pizza, potato chips, lunch meats, and canned soups can lower high blood pressure as they are high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy carbohydrates. 

●    Reduce your stress. Alleviating stress in your life in ways such as listening to music, meditation, taking a walk, and using breathing exercises can help to reduce your high blood pressure. 

 

It is wise to talk with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine, supplemental intake, or dietary change in an effort to lower blood pressure. Dr. C. Amanambu, can make recommendations for you based on your overall health. Not sure if you have high blood pressure, schedule an appointment with Dr. Amanambu for an overall health assessment. Dr. Amanambu and the staff of Pax Internal Medicine are here to help you take control of your high blood pressure.

Ensuring Road Safety: Dr. Amanambu's DOT Examination Services in Akron

By Dedric Isaac • 01 May, 2024
In the bustling streets of Akron and in our surrounding region, commercial drivers play a crucial role in keeping our economy moving. However, the safety of these drivers and the public depends significantly on their physical, mental, and emotional fitness. Recognizing this, Dr. Chimezie Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates offer comprehensive Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examinations, adhering to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements to ensure that commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers are in peak condition to navigate the roads safely. Who Needs a DOT Physical? If you're behind the wheel of a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people, are compensated to drive a vehicle carrying more than 8 passengers, transport hazardous materials requiring a placard, or operate a vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds on interstate highways, a DOT physical is mandatory for you. This examination is a prerequisite to obtaining your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC), a vital document that, along with your commercial driver’s license (CDL), legitimizes your status as a commercial driver for up to two years. The DOT Physical Process Dr. Amanambu's approach to the DOT physical is thorough and patient-centric, ensuring not just compliance with regulations but also prioritizing the driver's health and well-being. The examination encompasses a detailed review of the driver's medical history, including any surgeries, medications, and health conditions. A hands-on physical assessment follows, evaluating various health aspects from vision and hearing to cardiovascular health and neurological function. A urinalysis is also conducted to screen for underlying medical issues such as diabetes and kidney disease. Preparing for Your Examination To streamline your visit, Dr. Amanambu recommends coming prepared with a list of your medications, doctors' contact information, and any necessary corrective devices like glasses or hearing aids. For drivers managing conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea, bringing recent health records and treatment compliance reports can facilitate a smoother evaluation process. Navigating Health Conditions Certain health issues may necessitate more frequent examinations. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease might require annual reviews, while others, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, could lead to quarterly assessments. Dr. Amanambu's expertise ensures that drivers receive the guidance needed to manage their conditions effectively, aiming for optimal health and safety on the road. Dr. Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates stand at the forefront of ensuring the safety and health of Akron's commercial drivers through meticulous DOT physical examinations. Our commitment to thorough assessments and personalized care helps drivers meet regulatory requirements while fostering a safer driving environment for everyone. If you're a commercial driver, don't wait until the last minute to renew your certification. Book an appointment with Dr. Amanambu today and take the first step towards securing your health and livelihood on the road.

Knowing When to Consult Dr. Amanambu: The Right Time for Internal Medicine Care

26 Apr, 2024
In the journey towards maintaining optimal health, understanding the right time to seek medical attention is crucial. Dr. Chimezie Amanambu, our distinguished internal medicine doctor at Pax Internal Medicine Associates, emphasizes the importance of not delaying care for health concerns. Early intervention can be the key to preventing manageable conditions from becoming serious health issues. Recognizing the Signs Many people wonder when it's necessary to consult an internal medicine doctor. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, chronic pain, or fluctuations in blood pressure and blood sugar levels are clear indicators that it's time to see a specialist. Dr. Amanambu advises that listening to your body's signals is the first step towards taking control of your health. The Role of Preventive Care Preventive care is a cornerstone of internal medicine. Regular check-ups with Dr. Amanambu can identify risk factors and early signs of diseases before they develop into more significant problems. These visits are not just about screening for diseases; they're an opportunity to discuss lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, and exercise that can improve your overall well-being. Why Waiting Can Be Costly Delaying medical consultation can lead to conditions worsening or the emergence of complications, making treatment more difficult and recovery longer. Dr. Amanambu stresses that early diagnosis and treatment often result in better health outcomes and can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications. His approach combines cutting-edge medical knowledge with compassionate care, ensuring patients receive the most effective and timely interventions. Personalized Care at Pax Internal Medicine Associates At Pax Internal Medicine Associates, Dr. Amanambu tailors his approach to each patient's unique needs. Understanding that every individual's health journey is different, he provides personalized care plans designed to address specific health concerns and promote long-term health. His expertise in internal medicine allows him to manage a wide range of conditions, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care under one roof. Waiting to seek medical attention can be a gamble with your health—one that's not worth taking. If you're experiencing health issues or if it's simply time for your annual check-up, consulting with Dr. Amanambu is a step in the right direction. His expertise in internal medicine, combined with a proactive approach to healthcare, makes him an invaluable ally in your quest for a healthier life. Remember, in healthcare, timing is everything, and early intervention is often the key to a successful outcome. Take the time today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Amanambu.
Share by: