Source : Unsplash
For people with underlying conditions, covid 19 can be particularly detrimental. However, there’s hope in sight given the introduction of the covid 19 vaccines. Despite the fact that the vaccine is here to help, you find that most people are a bit skeptical. This is mainly because they are not sure how the vaccine would affect their existing conditions like blood pressure. High and low blood pressure may be experienced by people from different age groups. This is why people are urged to get checked with hospital use blood pressure monitors to stay on top of their health. Learning more about the vaccine is the best way to get the doubts out of the way and be on your way to living a normal life.
Table of Contents
Is the Covid 19 Vaccine Safe?
According to Dr. Mitchel Elkind, the president of the American Heart Association, the Covid 19 vaccine is safe for patients with heart conditions and blood pressure issues. Dr. Elkind has advised those with such conditions to get their vaccines as soon as possible to avoid being at any further risk. Scientists have come out to boldly say that the effects of Covid 19 are worse than any side effects that could be witnessed from the vaccine. With that said, the risk for any adverse effects from the Covid 19 vaccine on blood pressure patients is very small.
The confidence exuded in the Covid 19 vaccine’s safety is mainly because the vaccines were tested on both healthy individuals and those with underlying conditions. With the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, their clinical trial featured 25% of people with high blood pressure and 2% with heart disease. Additionally, the Moderna vaccine clinical trial had 25% or more of people with high-risk conditions like heart disease. With both trials, the vaccines were found to be effective on those who are healthy and those with underlying conditions. This goes to show that the vaccine is safe to use.
How Covid 19 Affects Your Blood Pressure
For people with a history of high blood pressure, the risks of adverse effects from the Covid 19 disease are very high. This is especially true for people who do not manage their condition with the necessary prescribed medication. When it comes to Covid 19 and blood pressure here are a few effects you may experience.
Oxygen Supply Problems
Covid 19 affects the lungs which reduce the ability to facilitate the supply of oxygen to your heart and body. When this happens, you find that your heart is forced to work on overdrive which could, in turn, affect your blood pressure.
Heart Problems
With high blood pressure, there’s a significant risk of contracting heart problems. However, with the addition of Covid 19, the risk increases dramatically. High blood pressure is a condition that makes the heart work harder than normal. With the elevation of your blood pressure levels due to Covid-19, you find that your blood vessels and arteries are attacked. This could lead to a heart attack or stroke.
How to Manage Your Blood Pressure
Managing your blood pressure levels is the best way to ensure that you can keep the Covid 19 disease in check before you get better. Being well prepared in case you contract the disease is important. To do this, the best way to take care of your blood pressure is by doing the following:
Eat Healthily
To keep your blood pressure in check, one of the most important aspects to consider is the kind of food you eat. You’ll need to stay away from junk food and embrace healthy foods that will help boost your immunity. There is a dietary approach to stop hypertension that includes having vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fish among others.
Take Your Medication
Taking medication prescribed by your doctor to manage your health condition is essential. Remember, as we said earlier, those who take their blood pressure medication have a higher chance than those who leave the condition untreated. Ensure that you keep up with your dosage as directed.
Develop an Active Lifestyle
Having an active lifestyle is a great way to regulate your blood pressure and keep it at the right level. Get in your exercises daily to ensure that you are on the right track. Exercising doesn’t have to be complex just take a walk around your neighborhood or do some yoga. Ensure you take on something you enjoy doing to make it easier to show up daily.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure Levels
Monitoring your blood pressure is essential. The best thing about this is that you can get a home blood pressure kit and learn how to use it. Consult with a blood pressure monitor manufacturer to get the best kit for your home. This will help you stay accountable and let you know if your lifestyle changes are effective.
Conclusion
When it comes to keeping your blood pressure in check, there are a lot of things you need to consider. By implementing them you increase your chances of surviving an attack from the Covid-19 disease. As for the vaccine, it is safe to say that it can be used by both healthy individuals and those with underlying conditions. Take the necessary steps to ensure that you get vaccinated as soon as possible.