Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding life-style measures for improved control of hypertension as follows:
- Observe compliance with log maintenance of everyday weight recording. Keep a close watch on the severity of pedal edema and other signs of fluid retention, such as, abdominal bloating, facial puffiness, and acute weight gain. Observe compliance with intake of diuretic medications prescribed, if any. Any acute increase of weight, more than 2 pounds in 2 consecutive days or more than 5 pounds in one-week duration, indicates significant fluid retention and deteriorating cardiac function, and must be reported to the physician.
- Progressive damage to coronary blood vessels, secondary to poorly controlled hypertension, can result in compromised blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscle. This can lead to palpitations and worsening of arrhythmias. Observe compliance with intake of anti-arrhythmic medications prescribed, if any. Keep a close watch and report to your physician regarding any new or worsening signs and symptoms of arrhythmia, such as, fluttering in the chest, racing or abnormally slow heartbeat, poorly felt pulse, dizziness, any episodes of loss of consciousness, chest pain and/or discomfort, and altered levels of consciousness.
- Progressive damage to blood vessels in the peripheries/extremities, secondary to unresolved hypertension can result in damage to the blood vessels providing blood supply to the muscle tissue, cramping, weakness, and worsening muscle pain, thus contributing to falls and accidents. Observe compliance with use of assistive device for fall and accident prevention. Seek therapy assistance for planned and safe execution of activities. Seek caregiver assistance, as needed.
