6 Lifestyle Changes for Managing PAH
Wheh suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood to your lungs are constricted. The patients suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension disease are likely to experience dizziness, fainting, nausea, and difficulty in breathing. The medications available are primarily meant to slow the progression of the disease. In addition, you can control the symptoms of PAH by making healthy choices. Read on to know more about the lifestyle changes that help with PAH.
1. Cut Down Salt Consumption
Consumption of excessive salt is always bad for your health. Doctors usually advise lowering the salt intake. Salt is the key ingredient in many the packaged, pickled, and canned foods. Avoid such foods and opt to consume the fresh ingredients where you will be able to limit intake of salt. Try adding spices like garlic or cumin to your food if you are worried about losing the flavor.
2. Limit Fluids
Doctors also suggest fluid restriction to the patients with the symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Patients need to keep a track of their weight to determine the ideal fluid consumption. Gaining more weight throughout a certain time means you are getting more fluids than you need. Consult your doctor frequently to know the correct fluid intake amount.
3. Say No Stimulants
One of the biggest lifestyle changes that help with PAH is to avoid stimulants like as caffeine and alcohol. Instead, try chicory if you like a hot beverage like tea or coffee in the morning. If you are attending any party, opt to have carbonated juices and nonalcoholic mocktails. Cutting back on these stimulants will help you to sleep better and promote better health.
4. Relieve Nausea
Nausea is also a side effect of PAH treatments. You can try to avoid this by eating smaller meals and cutting back on high-fat foods. Instead, to feel better, opt to eat unsalted crackers or plain and dry toast. Cutting back on ginger and soda also helps. However, make these dietary changes slowly and progressively, and do not overwhelm your body.
5. More Iron
Deficient iron consumption also fuels the aggravation of the symptoms of PAH. Hence, increase your iron intake by incorporating more dark leafy greens, beans, and red meats into your diet. Also consume more bell peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes to increase your vitamin C intake. Also always try to have a healthy breakfast with fresh juices and fruits.
6. Have More Garlic
Like with other diseases, garlic is great for PAH too. Allicin found in garlic helps in widening the vessels and keeps your blood pressure down. Remember to consume chopped garlic within an hour to get the most out of it.
Keeping your PAH under control will help you feel better. This will also help you to prevent any severe life-threatening condition. In addition to the periodic consultation with your doctor, opt for these lifestyle changes that help with PAH.